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As an adult who participated in the Appalachia Service Project mission trip as part of a consortium of United Methodist churches, Susan Magas had the privilege of seeing all 11 projects in process as a runner in the supply truck.

“Eighty persons came together and embodied the Golden Rule not only with the families we served, but also with one another,” Magas said. “I experienced a powerful demonstration that when two or more are gathered in Jesus’ name, anything is possible.

“Whether installing roofs, porches, floor supports and handicap ramps; digging drainage ditches up to the eyeballs in mud and mosquitoes; crawling on bellies under a house with 18 inches of clearance; putting up sheetrock in a baby’s room; celebrating a 100-year birthday; comforting sisters who just lost a father; completing chores at the school where we were housed; packing lunches for the volunteers and families; singing and sharing during evening gatherings; grilling hot dogs and pushing children in swings at the park; or changing a flat tire on a van, the Holy Spirit was alive and well within the homes of the families we served and within our 'home away from home’ in Man, W.Va.”

To prepare for this outreach project, each volunteer studied poverty issues, Appalachian culture and the meaning of servanthood ministry:

“This was my first year at ASP. When I got there, I met so many more people who were so full of love for our Lord. It was quite amazing. Also, when I had finally begun to meet and talk with 'my family,’ I realized how great they were, too.

Doing all that work for them made me happy that I was doing something to help someone else. I loved the way that made me feel. It was one of the greatest weeks of my life, and I can’t wait for next year!”

— Leah Fleming, high school youth

“My 'God moment’ was the day we had finished the steps on the deck the previous group built. The 6-year-old girl from our site came outside for one of the first times while we were packing up for the day. I watched the way she walked slowly down the steps and could tell she was so thankful to have them.”

— Ben Bowden, high school youth

“This was my third year on ASP, and I must say it was by far the most enjoyable and fulfilling of them all. It was an amazing experience to talk with the family whose house I worked on about their life and troubles, but also their joys and relationship with God. The awe-inspiring beauty of the countryside surrounding me and the joy and utmost gratitude of my work family kept me going strong throughout the week. ASP is a life-changing experience, and I recommend everyone to attend at least one year.”

— Ben Roberts, high school youth

“The times that I have been on ASP, two things have always stood out for me. One — how much I have been blessed by the Good Lord in having both my health and a place to stay that is not falling apart. Two — in dealing with the young people that go on these trips, in seeing their faith and dedication and willingness to help their fellow man, the reassurance that there is hope for the human race in times to come.”

— Jim George, adult

“One highlight of my ASP experience was on Friday afternoon when I pulled into the parking lot at the Dollar General Store. After I had stopped, I looked in my side rear-view mirror and noticed a lady who had started to get in her vehicle turn around and come up to the side of my van. She began asking about the staff that was at the ASP center last year.

“The lady told me over and over again how she did not know how she would have made it if it was not for what ASP did for her last year. She was so thankful. “

— Roy Grant, adult

“Frankly, I don’t remember a day without tears, laughter or ice cream.”

— Brenda Adkins, adult

“I felt God’s presence constantly. We worked on digging footers for a foundation under a house for a married couple and their 34-year-old son, Chester.

“Chester did not say much at first, but he showed his appreciation by helping us out with our work. He never stopped working, and whenever he heard one of us ask for something, he was right there to help. The family not only appreciated the work we were doing, but they appreciated our presence there with them.”

— Maria Sadler, college-age adult