Hope Experience Manual

2011 HOPE EXPERIENCE (4/2011)

MANUAL
WWW. HOPE EXPERIENCE .ORG 1
PARTICIPANT MANUAL
GRAB A COKE & TAKE SOME TIME TO READ THESE ESSENTIAL TID-BITS ON PLANNING FOR
YOUR EXPERIENCE. PLEASE READ THROUGH THE WHOLE MANUAL.

SECTION ONE, THE HOPE EXPERIENCE

3 Frequently Asked Questions & General Info
4 Background, Heart
5 Current Partners
6 Leadership Structure

SECTION TWO, LEADERSHIP EXPECTATIONS

7 Adult Leader Expectations
8 Student Expectations

SECTION THREE, TRIP PREPARATION

9 Timeline
10 Arrival, Registration & Checkin

SECTION FOUR, THE DETAILS

11 At The Grove
12 Away From The Grove
13 Transportation & Hope Now Offering
14 Parent Info, Safety, First Aid
14 Direct Contact Info

SECTION FIVE, RESOURCES

15 Fundraising
16 Maps / Primary Initiative & Hospital Locations
17 Packing List

SECTION SIX, FORMS

18 Medical Release
20 Waiver & Release
22 The Grove Release

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FAQ & GENERAL INFO
How much does Hope Experience cost?
Our Summer Hope Experience costs $295.00 per person.
Our Weekend Hope Experience costs $150.00 per person.
It includes:
• Lodging during camp week
• All meals, except for one evening meal where we’ll be eating
downtown Memphis (apx $25)
• All supplies and project materials
• (1) Hope Experience shirt for each person
What do we do?
Hope Experience merges the best parts of a youth camp with the
active service of an intentional “missions” camp. Participants are
split into “crews” and are sent out to various initiatives all
throughout the Memphis community. Our goal is that each crew
rotates between initiatives on a daily basis, giving each student an
opportunity to experience all the different initiatives.
Who comes to Hope Experience?
Junior/Senior High Students: Participants are advised to be at least
12 yrs. old or entering the 7th grade in the fall of 2011.
Young Adults: Individuals between 19-22 yrs. old are welcome to
join us as LIT’s (Leaders In Training).
Adults: Adults are critical to the Hope Experience for leadership,
mentorship & guidance!
No special skills are required…just a willingness to serve. (But if you
do have some SKILLZ, please let us know!)
What about adults?
Adults (age 21 and above) are a critical part of Hope Experience.
They provide safety, relationships, spiritual guidance, and discipline.
All adults serve on project crews, shoulder to shoulder with young
people.
We ask that groups please bring a minimum of one adult for every
7 youth. If groups register both males and females, we ask that
they bring at least one adult male and one adult female. If additional
adults want to come, bring ‘em on!!
How are crews organized?
A typical “crew” is a group of 15-20 participants, including 2-4
adults. Some projects require multiple crews or slight modifications
of crew size based on local partners and community needs.
Project crews usually include participants from a variety of groups.
If Group Leaders would rather have their teenagers serve with their
own group members, let us know and we will try to accommodate
the request!
What about transportation?
You need to provide transportation for your group to, and from, the
Hope Experience. Also, during the trip, the vehicles that each
group brings are used to provide daily transport to and from project
sites (including charter buses). All vehicles must ensure the number
of seats and seat belts in their vehicles matches or exceeds the
number of people it will carry.
Vehicles with at least six seats and seat belts are preferred.
All vehicles, including chartered buses, must be available for
transportation to sites during the week.
QUICK GUIDE
HOPE EXPERIENCE
SECTION : QUICK GUIDE
ONE : HOPE EXPERIENCE 2011
Where do we stay?
All participants stay at The Grove at Red Lake- a Christian camp,
retreat and conference center located in a beautiful community of
Greater Memphis.
Housing will be split between cabins and large bunkhouses, with
leadership staying with the students. All housing is bunk style- we
encourage bringing a sleeping bag and twin-size sheets, just in
case it gets a bit toasty. All rooms have A/C & heat. The
bunkhouses have direct access to bathrooms/showers, while the
cabins have bathhouses within 20-30ft of the buildings.
Visit The Grove’s website at www.mygrove.org.
The Grove 849 Rocky Point Road, Cordova, TN 38018
How do I register for a Hope Experience?
There are 2 ways to register for Hope Experience: Online
(Individuals) or by Mail (Groups).
• Each participant attending with a group must register for Hope
Experience by filling out the Individual Registration Form. Forms
must then be collected and turned into the Group Leader.
• Group Leaders are also required to complete a Group
Registration Form that must be turned in with your (collected)
Forms.
• Make sure to specify the camp session you or your group wishes
to attend. Dates for participants are assigned on a first come,
first served basis.
• Detach the form, and return it with a $50 non-refundable deposit
per person to:
Hope Experience 468 Lookout Dr. Eads, TN 38028
Summer Registration
Registering for our Summer Hope Experience is a four step
process.
1. Register Your Group
Register online or mail in in the “Group Registration Form”
with an estimate of your group size.
2. Send In Deposit
A nonrefundable deposit ($50 per person) is required at the
time of registration to reserve space.
3. Payment 2
50% of your group’s remaining balance is due 5/1/11.
4. Payment 3
Your remaining balance is due 6/1/11.
Subject to availability, any registrations after June 1, 2011 will
require an additional $25 late-fee (per person) & immediate full
payment. Remember we’ll work with you. Make sure to bring each
filled out all the completed Participant forms to camp.
What happens if Hope Experience is full?
We only have spots for 340 more individuals. (as of April 1st, 2011)
Spots for the 2011 Hope Experience are filled on a first-come, first-
served basis, so it pays to register early. However, if you register
and we’re “full,” we’ll give you the option of being on a wait-list. Call
us. We’ll help.
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OUR HEART & VISION
THE HOPE EXPERIENCE
Hope Experience is a one-week journey that merges service and
relationships, within different areas of great need.
Initiatives might include running a sports day camp, preparing
meals for people without homes, teaching ESL Classes (English as
a Second Language) to International Refugees, coloring with high-
risk kids at LeBonheur Children’s Hospital, repairing/rebuilding our
Hope Homes in South Memphis (future transitional homes for
refugees / second chance housing), or simply cleaning the home of
an elderly person.
A typical “work crew” is a group of 15-20 participants and 2-4
adults. Some projects require multiple work crews or slight
modifications of crew size based on local partners and community
needs. Work crews usually include participants from a variety of
groups.
Hope Experience is built & driven by three core principals.
1. Initiatives of Great Need/Worth
By working with incredible partners who are already on the
ground and by intentionally focusing on areas of serious need,
participants find themselves immersed in cultures and situations
that are far beyond the normal routine of life. We’ve learned that
sometimes it takes a trip to the edge to realize the potential,
opportunity, and responsibility for the things that are normally
right in front of us. Big moments make for BIG changes.
2. Intentional / Strategic Logistics
To make Hope Experience the best it can be, we have a team of
people who are working hard to take care of the details. From
food and lodging to project/initiative preparation, we visit each
site to make sure they’re ready for us to serve. We’ve made it
easy for the Group Leaders, so they can concentrate on the
most important thing- spending time & serving people!
3. Continuing The Movement Back Home
While the Hope Experience is hosted by the leadership of
Nations Church, it’s actually just an overflow of local ministry that
happens throughout the year. We want participants to take the
lessons, challenges and post-experience curriculum back to their
communities and be the agents of change that they’re designed
to be.
Our heart is that people realize that together, we can change the
world and that anything is possible- we just have to believe that
God’s big enough and that He wants to do it through us.
QUICK GUIDE
SECTION ONE : HOPE EXPERIENCE 2011
MISSION AND PHILOSOPHY
OUR BELIEFS
• That God, as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, are one.
• That God guides, inspires, and strengthens us through His Holy
Spirit and Word.
• That as Christians, we live by the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and
that we consider this the Good news to the world.
• In His commandments to love God above all, and our neighbors
as ourselves.
• That God compels us to make a difference in our world.
• That we should always act out of love.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
The Hope Experience Philosophy was established in light of the
uniqueness of Nations Church and has been refined over time. Our
philosophy is basically threefold:
• Provide opportunities to serve the local church in & outside of
Memphis according to the standards and needs of the various
communities/partnerships in which we work.
• Provide opportunities for individuals/groups to serve the
international & urban community of the inner city of Memphis-
according to the standards and needs of the various
communities/partnerships in which we work.
• To work and serve according to the goals, objectives and
strategies established by the leadership of Nations Church and in
the best interests of the Hope Experience partners, participants
and donors.
LEADERSHIP TEAMS
The Oversight Leadership Team is the pastoral leadership of
Nations Church. As an overflow of Nations Church, the Hope
Experience is a direct extension of the unique ministry and
philosophy of the vision of Nations Church. They serve as
overseers to ensure integrity, continuity and accountability of the
vision.
The Senior Leadership Team is not only comprised of the Oversight
Leadership Team, but is also made up of individuals who’ve been
chosen to serve alongside the Hope Experience because they hold
a common vision/philosophy of ministry. They help determine the
program details and logistical needs to best fulfill the overall vision
of the Hope Experience.
CREW LEADERS & BACKGROUND TEAMS
Crew Leaders are the most seen, and known, leadership by the
groups because they serve as the key leadership at the locations
around the city. Crew Leaders provide work crews with directions
and instructions at the worksites, not to mention working every
moment to ensure an overall positive serving experience. Our Crew
Leadership is dedicated to making the experience of each work
crew in Memphis the safest and best it can be- for both those the
group is serving, and for the group itself.
In addition to working with our Crew Leaders, groups will be served
throughout the Hope Experience by our incredible Background
Teams. These teams of volunteers are committed to assisting,
supporting, and encouraging groups throughout their Hope
Experience.
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 SECTION ONE : HOPE EXPERIENCE 2011
CURRENT INITIATIVE PARTNERS Quick glance at our core partnerships.

NATIONS CHURCH www.nationschurch.tv

Nations is a relatively new, small, local church focused on missional
lifestyles. Committed to equipping, activating, and mobilizing
Believers for the advancement of the Kingdom at all costs- 60% of
their resources goes out to Global Initiatives. In just 3 years, NC
has visited 13 countries, secured roughly 26 global partnerships,
and is currently approaching over $200,000 invested away to
global strategy.

Nations is the host of the Hope Experience.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES www.ccwtn.org

Catholic Charities of West Tennessee serves people of all ages and
from all walks of life, and are one of the largest nonprofit, multi-
social service providers in the Mid-south. Their Refugee &
Immigration Services extend reception to refugee families, provide
employment and education services (including ESL), family
reunification applications, and adjustment of status (green card)
services.

This incredible service is one the core foundations of Hope

Experience.

MEMPHIS ATHLETIC MINISTRIES www.mamsports.org

MAM's mission is to use organized sports to share and model
Christ to urban, at-risk young people and to foster unity among
diverse segments of our community. Their goal for each youth is:
Improved spiritual growth (Love God), Improved relationships with
others (Love Others), and Improved personal behavior (Love Self).

We’ll be partnering with MAM’s Sports Day Camps located

throughout the inner city.

URBAN FARMS www.urbanfarms.squarespace.com

The purpose of the Urban Farms & Urban Market is to improve
access to healthy food, create market and employment
opportunities, and serve as a resource for neighborhood
gardeners. Their hope is to provide opportunities for learning as
people grow and eat good food together.

We’ll be farming, preparing, and tending to the Urban Farm &

Market throughout the week.

HABITAT FOR HOPE www.habitatforhope.org

Habitat for Hope exists to support, serve, and care for families
facing the serious illness of a child. HFH comes alongside families
and provides practical, emotional, spiritual, and respite care.  They
serve families by feeding them, providing lodging, helping with
transportation, inviting them into their homes for gatherings,
counseling, and staying in close contact once they return home.

We’ll be supporting some of HFH‘s weekly activities through their

work with LeBonheur Children’s Hospital, as well as other
opportunities of service and construction at their HQ.

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 SECTION ONE : HOPE EXPERIENCE 2011
LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE
Perhaps the biggest enhancement to the overall structure of Hope
Experience from last year is our incredible Leadership Structure.

Director
• Responsible for the overall leadership of the Hope Experience
• Responsible for the overall execution of the Nightly Services
• Prayer Warrior

Program Director
• Responsible for the overall execution of everything “home” at the
camp
• Gives leadership to Program Teams (Recreation, Prep, Meals,
Special Events)
• Works directly with the Director & Field Director

Field Director
• Responsible for the overall execution of everything “away” from
the camp (Initiative Locations, Construction Activities,
Transportation Guidance)
• Gives leadership to Initiative Supervisors
• Works directly with the Director & Program Director

Initiative Supervisors
• Reports directly to the Field Director
• Works directly with the Crew Leaders on site
• Assigned as key leader for up to 5 Initiative locations
• Maintains a master binder w/ all participant Medical/Release
Forms in case of emergencies
• Responsible for the various needs of assigned locations
(Supplies, Materials, Partnership Relationships)

Crew Leaders RESPONSIBILITY THREEFOLD

• Reports all needs/issues directly to assigned Initiative Supervisor
• Responsible for the leadership & execution of their locations
initiative
• Works directly with the Adult Leaders & work crew on site
Group Leaders
• Reports all needs/issues directly to Hope Experience Director
• Responsible for the Adult Leadership & Group participants
The Grove provides incredible accommodations, meals and other
great facilities.
The Hope Experience provides all of the elements for daily/nightly
activities including: initiatives planning/execution, nightly programs,
curriculum/study materials, recreation leadership, etc. Groups
provide leaders to help support the vision & execution of the overall
experience.
Each group attending Hope Experience should provide one adult
for every 7 students. Participants attending Hope Experience must
have completed sixth grade.

Adult Leaders The Grove

• Reports all needs/issues directly to Group Leader
• Aids in monitoring the dress code of the participants
• Encourages participation & promptness by setting the example
• Seeks constant updates from students on physical, emotional &
spiritual conditions

Hope Experience

Attending
Hope Experience
Groups & Chaperones
Leadership

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GUIDELINES Expectations for Adult Leadership & Students.
ADULT LEADER / CHAPERONE GUIDELINES
INTRODUCTION
Hope Experience generates years of memories for those who
participate. For most youth and adults, the week is a “mountain top
experience” which challenges and strengthens their walk of faith.
For just a few others, the week is one of frustrations, strained
relationships and that “I don’t want to go back” attitude. What
makes the difference?
The difference between a good experience and a bad experience
at camp is directly related to preparation prior to the week and
participation during the week. Let us share some ingredients that
may help this be a positive experience for you and your group.
Pray Pray for yourself, leaders and youth.
Identify Identify the needs of each youth.
Work Set goals for what you want from camp.
Communicate Communicate rules and responsibilities.
Assign Assign every leader 8 participants to pray for.
PRE-CAMP
Before coming to Hope Experience, plan to have at least one
meeting of all youth and adults who will participate in the trip, as
well as parents.
Discuss responsibilities and expectations, including behavior and
appropriate dress, with all participants.
ADULT EXPECTATIONS
In order to provide the best atmosphere and supervision, we ask
that all groups provide one adult sponsor, age 21 or older, for every
seven youth. A group of male and female youth must have at least
one male and one female sponsor. The sponsor(s) must reside with
the group and supervise the group’s participation/activity on and off
campus.
Adults should be adults! They should model the behavior and
participation that is expected of the youth in worship, in study, at
play, while dining, in the residence building & in the “field”.
ADULT RESPONSIBILITIES
• Assign each adult specific teenagers they are responsible for
checking in with during the week. For example, one female
chaperone and up to seven girls. Make sure you have assigned
places to meet before each activity in order to keep up with your
students.
• Throughout the entire Hope Experience, adults should actively be
involved in all of the planned/group activities. This includes
meetings, meals, initiatives & gatherings. Afternoon rec is a great
time of relationship building- but also for great naps!
• Leadership meetings are held at 7:15am everyday. The meetings
are critical times of daily updates, schedule changes, schedule
feedback, participant challenges & prayer for the students. We
know it’s early, but it’s an awesome time of preparation!
PARTICIPANT GUIDE
SECTION TWO : EXPECTATIONS
• The behavior of your teenagers is your responsibility. If your
students are being loud at night, please ask them to be quiet. If
need be, ask other youth who may be a distraction to your group
to be quiet as well. Good rest is incredibly important!
• Please help us to enforce the Appropriate Dress Policy at all
times. Each youth should have received a list of appropriate
dress. Please understand that participants will not be allowed to
leave for the work sites if they are dressed inappropriately.
• Be an encourager. Discover special things about the youth from
your group and then let them know you appreciate that special
part of who they are.
• Know who in your assigned group has made a personal
commitment/profession of faith in Jesus Christ.
• Pray daily for each person under your responsibility.
LIT’s Leaders In Training (College / Young Adults)
• All LIT’s must be at least 19 years old. Basically, someone who
has been out of high school for at least one year. We encourage
each Group Leader to select these LIT’s at their own discretion.
• Aid in monitoring the dress code of your students.
• Encourage participation and promptness by setting an example.
• Serve at the discretion of the Group Leader / Hope Experience
Leadership.
• LIT’s coming with your group who are under age 21 and not an
Adult Sponsor do not have to be included in your student ratio.
For example, if you bring 7 high school boys and 4 LIT boys, you
will only need 1 male sponsor since the 4 LIT’s don’t count in
your sponsor-to-student ratio.
POST-EXPERIENCE
What happens when you return home is just as important, if not
more important, as what happens at camp. Please begin planning
now for how you might follow up on what happens in the lives of
your youth at camp.
• Pay particular attention to those youth who make decisions
concerning their Christian faith. Find ways to help them apply
their camp experiences to their everyday lives.
• We provide a sample worship/sharing outline that can be used
on your return to give students an opportunity to share back at
home what they learned at camp.
• Also included in the student workbook is one extra week of quiet
times to help students continue to make their time with God a
daily reality.
• Commitment cards will be given to you on the last day of camp
for you to follow up with the decisions individuals make from your
church.
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 SECTION TWO : EXPECTATIONS
GUIDELINES Continued...

MOST IMPORTANTLY STUDENT GUIDELINES

• Bring a good attitude, openness to hear God’s voice, flexibility Print and read the guidelines below before you come to the Hope
and a prayerful spirit. Experience with your group. These should help you in packing and
in understanding expectations for the week.
• God is going to do an awesome work. Be prepared to pray daily
for your group members. • The Grove has a swimming pool & small pond with qualified
lifeguards on duty in the afternoons. Swimming in other areas is
• Find out all you can before you come as to where the youth are
not allowed.
spiritually.
• Both the pool & pond are off limits after dark.
• Let us know on your arrival the names of those who have not
committed to a personal relationship with Christ. Let us know • If you get hurt while at The Grove and cannot find your Group
those who will need our special attention and prayer. The Hope Leader, go to the First Aid Station at the Welcome Center or send
Experience Prayer Team have prayer times at 8:15am and a friend there for help.
6:15pm every day and wants to pray for your group specifically.
• Each participant will be given a Hope Experience bracelet at
These are the ingredients for a successful camp experience. We registration, that MUST be worn at all times throughout the week.
pledge to do our part in preparing for a good experience and we This bracelet serves as group identification as well as your meal
trust you will do the same. By working together, we can ensure a pass.
good growth experience for all participants.
• If you lose your Hope Experience bracelet you may get a new
one for $5 at the Reception Center.
CELL PHONES
• Please bring a Bible. You will need to have your own Bible during
The use of cell phones is up to the discretion of your Group Leader. morning quiet times, daily Bible study and other times during the
Please make sure they are not brought to nightly gatherings or week. Write your name, church and town in your Bible. Don’t
taken out to the initiative sites during the day. forget to bring a pen.
• You are encouraged not to bring expensive jewelry or large sums
of money.
DRESS CODE
• There is no smoking at any time.
Please dress appropriately at all times. We like the fact that the 450
people who will be with you at the Hope Experience are a very • Drugs, alcohol, firearms, knives, fireworks and laser pointers are
diverse group of people. However, this means things that might not not allowed.
bother you offend some people.
While we’re pretty relaxed at all times- here’s the Hope Experience
Dress Code:
• Only one-piece bathing suits are allowed. When not at the lake or
pool, please cover up. Please, no two-piece bikinis, tankinis or
speedos.
• No short-shorts. How short is too short? Sit on the floor in front
of your Pastor with your legs crossed- and ask them. :c)
• Do not wear T-shirts or other clothing with offensive language,
advertisements or pictures.
• Remember that the nightly gatherings are about worship. Please
dress appropriately.
• Tank tops must have straps that are three inches wide. Spaghetti
straps are not allowed. Ever.
• Closed toe shoes must be worn at all times at the work sites. No
sandals are allowed.
• No bare feet in any of the buildings at The Grove, except your
cabin or bunkhouse.
• Please remember to monitor your group so others will not
complain to the camp staff.
• Tuesday night is White T-Shirt Night. Please bring a white t-shirt
that you can throw away.

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REGISTRATION TIMELINE
YOUR MISSION TRIP TIMELINE - WHEN TO GET THINGS
DONE
Following is a dateline of basic mission trip information and group
responsibilities. Any questions that may arise from this information
can be answered by calling the Hope Experience Registration Team
at (901) 213-8094.
SECTION THREE : TRIP PREPARATION
‣ SIX MONTHS TO ONE YEAR OUT
REGISTRATION
• When a group leader requests info, Hope Experience
Registration Team will send a copy of the manual, dates &
trip info.
• A group is registered when the Hope Experience Registration
Team receives the Group Deposit & Group Registration
Form.
Remember- a nonrefundable deposit ($50 per person) is
required at the time of registration to reserve each space.

CONFIRMATION
• Hope Experience will send out a Confirmation packet that
includes the group’s Financial Agreement and all of the
needed individual Participation Forms.

‣ FIVE MONTHS TO SEVEN WEEKS OUT

• Groups must secure transportation reservations for their
trips such as airline tickets, rental vans, etc. More
information on rental vans is located in Section Four,
Resources.
• Begin preparing & executing various fundraising trip ideas.
• Start rounding up necessary gear, equipment and tools for
your trip. (See list on page 17)
• Begin gathering Participant forms/releases/deposits.

‣ EIGHT TO TWELVE WEEKS OUT

• 50% of the group fee is due by May 1st, 2011

‣ FOUR WEEKS WEEKS OUT

• All Group Registration Forms, deposits, and remaining
balance is due by June 1st, 2011.
• Confirm final transportation options.
• The group leader confirms the final size of the group. Please
note that a dramatic increase in group size after the four
week date could have repercussions. Materials are ordered
by the four week date and delivered to the worksites two
weeks before the group arrives.
• Groups need to check on their organization’s liability
insurance policy. The policy covers suits brought against an
organization if a person is harmed during an activity, or in
this case, a trip. A group should ensure that their policy will
cover traveling and working in Memphis. A group which
does not have adequate coverage can purchase a
temporary policy, called a rider, in most cases.

‣ TEN DAYS OUT

• Double-check the packing list to make sure the group is all
set on tools, first aid supplies and personal items for the
trip.

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 SECTION THREE : TRIP PREPARATION
ARRIVING AT THE GROVE
CHECK-IN AND REGISTRATION INFO
These procedures are mainly in place for our Memphis Summer
Hope Experiences. Groups attending our Weekend Hope
Experiences will receive special instructions unique to your trip.

Please remember that All Forms must be filled out and signed
before you arrive in Memphis. Minors must have a parent or legal
guardians signature on their form.

BEFORE YOUR GROUP ARRIVES

• Top off gas in vehicles. (Allows us to leave quickly on Day 1)
• Eat dinner if you haven’t RSVP’d for the Sunday Night meal at
The Grove.
• Group Leaders - please send the following TXT to (901)
289-2037 (Hope Experience Director, Paul Briney) when you
are 1 hour away from arriving:
“Group Name is 1 hour away! Leader Name”
• Group Leaders - Gather your Group Folder w/ all of your forms
& releases. You will transfer this to the Hope Experience
Welcome Director immediately upon arrival.
• Remember: All Individual Participation Forms must be filled out
and signed. Minors must have a parent or legal guardians
signature on their form.

CHECK-IN
• Your Hope Experience Welcome Director & Crew will greet you
outside the designated Registration Area. Please have all
participants remain on the vehicle until the Hope Experience
Welcome Director has prepped the Group Leader with
immediate instructions.
• All participants will exit vehicles to the Registration Area.
Participants can leave all their belongings inside the vehicles
and retrieve them after registration.
• Each individual participant will register and receive a welcome
packet (Experience Manual, meal bracelets, housing
assignments)
• Group Leaders - While we’ll have a welcome crew to help with
luggage, it might get chaotic with many groups arriving at the
same time. Your Welcome Director will let you know if you
should choose 2-3 additional strapping young men to help
offload your luggage.
• Group Leaders - All financial obligations will be reconciled upon
check in.

PROJECT MATERIALS
Please remember that materials are ordered four weeks out from
the Hope Experience, and are delivered to the worksites two weeks
before the groups arrive. This is why we have such a important
LATE REGISTRATIONS
registration timeline & late fee policy.
Subject to availability & approval from Hope Experience Director,
any registrations after June 1, 2011 will require an additional $25
DONATED GOODS late-fee (per person) & immediate full payment. Remember we’ll
work with you, just contact us.
Any groups requesting to bring donations MUST receive approval
from Hope Experience BEFORE bringing them to Memphis. Please
contact your Hope Experience Director for more information on
what items are needed.

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WHILE AT THE GROVE
WHILE AT THE GROVE
• Groups are expected to stay at The Grove.
• The Grove is located in a beautiful & secure area in a suburb of
Memphis.
• Groups should not bring fireworks, weapons, drugs, alcohol or
animals into The Grove.
• Groups OR Group Leaders should not leave camp without
notifying a Hope Experience Staff member.
• Keep vehicles locked when unoccupied and carry spare keys.
• Sandals, shorts, and tank tops can be worn at camp, but
please refer to the packing list for clear expectations on attire.
• At no time is it acceptable for boys to be inside girls’ cabins or
girls to be inside boys’ cabins. Ever.
• Quiet hours are from 11pm- 6 am.
PARTICIPANT GUIDE
SECTION FOUR : THE DETAILS
AFTER HOURS
• The program schedule is designed to give you adequate time to
have group debriefing/devotions, clear the main auditorium and
get ready for bed before lights out at 11:45 p.m.
• Group devotions should be over by 11 p.m. Groups assigned
meeting places for devotions outside their sleeping areas
should move quickly at 11 p.m. to their housing.
• The Hope Experience staff will expect the campus to be
completely cleared shortly after 11 p.m.
• Doors to the main auditorium will be locked each night.
If your youth are found on the grounds after hours, security will
bring them to you. Before the fact, please decide on appropriate
discipline for this trespass and communicate it to the group before
the first night (or even better, at the pre-camp meeting) and be
prepared to take action as needed.
If you are staying in the large bunkhouses please help us enforce
the lights out and quiet time rules. If your group is not trying to
sleep, others who are will be affected. Teamwork among the adults
will go far in helping all enjoy camp to the fullest.
GROUP DEVOTIONS
Materials for morning quiet time, small group Bible study, morning
celebration, evening worship and group devotion are all related and
focus on the trip theme. Thus, the group devotion is not an after-
thought at the end of the day; rather, this material brings together
what has happened during the day and provides opportunity for
reflection and personal or group application.
We encourage you to use the devotional material prepared. You
may choose to lead this time yourself or ask one of the adult
sponsors to be responsible for this material. Either way, it will re-
quire that you familiarize yourself with the material and prepare for
this prior to leaving for camp.
MEAL PLANNING & PREPARATION
• Breakfast & Dinner - Will be at The Grove.
• Lunch - Sack lunches of PB&J will be in the field. We’ll supply
everything but the PB & J (Bread, fruit, snack, utensils, etc..)
• Sandwiches will be made
• Each individual needs to bring 1 jar of their favorite peanut
butter & 1 jar of their favorite Jelly. Plastic is preferred.
• Note - We will have sandwich alternatives for those with peanut
allergies. Please inform your Group Leader.
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AWAY FROM THE GROVE
INITIATIVE BREAKDOWN
There are 2 kinds of initiative sites that participants will be serving at
throughout the week.
• Serve Sites - Initiative sites driven by relational activities and/or
sites that focus primarily on partnership support.
• Work Sites - Initiative sites focusing primarily on active work/
construction.
DRESS CODE
• For safety reasons, sandals are never allowed at the Initiative
locations. Participants MUST wear closed toe shoes.
• Work Sites - A t-shirt, long pants, and a pair of shoes is the
minimum dress code requirement.
• Serve Sites - Dress code is based on the specific environment
participants will be serving in.
AUTHORITY
• Crew Leaders will be at each worksite to lead, train, make
decisions and encourage the group when necessary.
• Adult Leaders are the assisting enforcement to help fulfill/
execute the vision/goals of the Hope Experience.
WORKING AT THE SITE
• Each worksite will host approximately 15-20 workers,
depending on the project scope or need of our initiative
partners.
• The Hope Experience strives to have work crews with multiple
worksites near each other, but this consideration is secondary
to the needs of the Memphis communities we serve.
• The goal of building, unfortunately, often surpasses the goal of
ministry and service. Ministry to the people of Memphis is much
more than building!
• Crew Leaders will determine a work schedule based upon the
group’s energy level, the intensity of the sun and programming
& transportation schedule.
• An average work schedule is from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
• At times, families that groups are building/working for make
personal requests for adjustments in the building plans. Please
confer with the Crew Leader before proceeding.
SECTION FOUR : THE DETAILS
MATERIALS
• All construction materials are provided by the Hope Experience.
• Materials are ordered four weeks out and delivered to the
worksites two weeks before the group arrives.
• All materials at the worksites are inventoried at the end of each
day. Please ask the Crew Leader where materials are stored.
• Sometimes the quality of materials may vary. Sand may have
dirt or big rocks in it. The lumber may be warped. Don’t be
alarmed... Be flexible.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
• Group Leaders - Please contact the Executive Director for
specific needs if you’d like to bring tools or construction
equipment.
• All power tools must be checked in with the Crew Leader
before being used each day.
• We’ll end each day with a tool pick-up and clean-up time at
least 30 mins before pickup.
• If groups would like to bring tools, please ensure that ALL tools
are in safe & functional working condition.
• Groups can donate any tools for the continuing year-round
work of the Hope Experience.
• Group Leaders - Generators are not widely needed, but please
contact the Executive Director if you’d like to bring one.
DRINKING WATER
Memphis gets VERY hot & VERRRRRY humid during the summer,
that’s why we drink LOTS of water throughout the week!
• Each location will be supplied with (1) cooler of ice water, as
well as having access to fresh/clean water. Locations will also
be supplied with Gatorade powder to mix as needed.
• Participants must bring their own water bottle to fill throughout
the week. Nalgene or other hard plastic bottles work great.
• Participants can pack some instant flavor powder for their
water if they’d prefer some more taste.
• Drinking two gallons of water (per person, per day) is highly
recommended to prevent dehydration.

INITIATIVE CRATES & COOLERS

Each worksite will be provided (1) cooler of water and (1) crate that
will be inventoried & restocked on a daily basis.
• First Aid Kit (w/ extra bandaids)
• Trash Bags
• Gatorade Powder
• Rope for backpacks
• Scissors
• Hand Sanitizer
• Cleaning Wipes
• Napkins / Paper Towels
• Extra Peanut Butter/Jelly
• Fruit

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TRANSPORTATION & HOPE NOW OFFERING
TRANSPORTATION POLICY
To keep costs low, Hope Experience relies on using the
transportation provided by each group throughout the week.
Groups are responsible for all transportation to/from the Hope
Experience, and must also understand that their vans/busses be
made available for the daily use of transportation to the worksites.
No one is permitted to drive vehicles other than the specific
individual Group Leaders authorization.
A. Rented / Leased
• Due to recent changes in liability/insurance guidelines, 15
passenger vans are never to be rented to transport students.
• When a vehicle is leased or rented to transport students
Liability Insurance must be obtained. The minimum
acceptable limits are $100,000 / $300,000 or combined
single limit of $300,000.
• If the vehicle is to be driven to Memphis, check that the
contract does not prohibit travel to Memphis.
• Obtain travel/transportation insurance through the vehicle
owner or an insurance broker.
• A copy of the car insurance should be kept in the vehicle at
all times and a separate copy kept with the Group Leader.
• A signed driver information sheet on each driver must be
obtained. Drivers must be 25 years of age or older.
• Drivers must have a valid driver’s license and no physical
disability that could in any way impair his / her ability to drive
the vehicle.
• Vehicles must never be overloaded. There must be a seat
belt for each passenger and the seat belts must be used.
• Students are never allowed to ride in the cargo area of a
vehicle or in a bed of a truck.
• Students are never allowed to drive any vehicles.
B. Chartered Vehicles
• Obtain a copy of the company’s liability insurance certificate
and declarations page for the current policy term.
• Require that your Group be named as an additional insured
for the duration of the trip. Your Group must be named as an
additional insured; it is not enough to be named as a
Certificate holder.
• Vehicles must never be overloaded. There must be a seat
belt for each passenger and seat belts must be used.
PARTICIPANT GUIDE
SECTION FOUR : THE DETAILS
2011 HOPE NOW OFFERING
This summer our Hope Now offering will target 3 areas of
opportunity.
1. Fund/build a Community School in Zambia.
2. Fund/build a Hope Center in Nicaragua.
3. Save 100 lives from malnutrition in Zambia / Malawi through
Operation Peanut Butter.
For full info on this years Hope Now offering, visit us online.
Stewardship involves giving one’s time, abilities, spiritual gifts and
financial resources and is a vital part of a balanced spiritual life.
During the Hope Experience we want to challenge youth to develop
in every aspect of their lives as Christians, including their finances.
Participants attending camp, as well as their churches back home,
will be encouraged to give to the Hope Now offering. Money can
also be contributed to the offering by the church as a whole before
the youth come to camp. The offering will be collected at Hope
Experience on Thursday evening during worship.
Ways of Giving
Have the youth discuss ways they can increase the amount they
give during the week. For example, what could they give up while
at camp in order to have more money to give? Encourage sacrificial
giving.
There may be others in your church who will want to contribute to
this offering, so let the congregation know about it. Explain that the
youth will be giving while at camp and invite others to make
contributions before you leave. Checks can be made to Nations
Church. Please note 2011 Hope Now Offering on the Memo line.
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 SECTION FOUR : THE DETAILS
PARENT INFO Information that parents really want to know.

GETTING IN TOUCH WITH YOUR STUDENT HOSPITAL / MEDICAL NEEDS

While the disruptive use of cell phones during the Hope Experience
is not accepted, we leave the option of collecting phones / helping
us enforce this rule up to the individual Group Leader.
We know that we live in a time of unreal technology & social
networking, but we also understand how distracting it all can be.
We’re here to serve, grow, and have a blast.
So during the day, participants are urged to leave all valuables
(including cell phones) in their cabins with their luggage. During the
night, participants are instructed to leave all “items of
distraction” (cell phones, iPods, etc..) in their cabins.
• IMPORTANT: Your Group Leader & Hope Experience Director
are responsible for all first aid and medical care decisions for a
group.
• IMPORTANT: Hope Experience is not licensed to perform or
offer professional medical advice. Beyond basic first aid, all
injuries will be cause to seek professional medical attention.
• In case of emergencies, all Location Leaders understand where
the nearest hospital /medical facilities are in relation to the sites.
• We will notify the parent/guardian/emergency contact as soon
as we know the extent of the illness or injury.

In the event of an emergency, please don’t hesitate to contact

either the Hope Experience Director or your Group Leader. They will
be able to contact your student within minutes.

FIRST AID PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES CONTACT INFO

• IMPORTANT: Your Group Leader & Hope Experience Director
are responsible for all first aid and medical care decisions for a Hope Experience Executive Director
group. Director: Paul Briney
• All initiative locations will have a first aid kit that will be Cell: (901) 289-2037
restocked daily. Location Leaders will also have a copy of the Email: paul@hopeexperience.org
signed medical release for each participant.
• All participants should use sunblock, hats, sunglasses, and Hope Experience
clothing to protect sensitive areas such as noses, necks and Office: (901) 213-8094
scalps. Email: info@hopeexperience.org
• All participants are required to wear closed-toe shoes at all Mailing: 468 Lookout Dr., Eads, TN 38028
times when on location at initiative sites. In other words, with Web: www.hopeexperience.org
the exception of our Downtown Dinner- at no time should
participants wear sandals away from The Grove.
• Location Leaders & Group leaders will watch for signs of The Grove - Retreat & Conference Center
overexposure. Fatigue, nausea, excessive or alternately, a Directors: Neal & Janine Pflibsen
complete lack of sweating, and headache are primary Office: (901) 729-7292
indications of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Address: 849 Rocky Point Road, Cordova, TN 38018
• Group leaders will contact a Hope Experience representative Web: www.mygrove.org
immediately if a participant displays any signs of heat
exhaustion or heat stroke.
• Memphis, not to mention the initiative locations, can be very
dusty. Pack extra antihistamines for allergy sufferers and extra
saline solution for contact lens wearers.
• All prescription medication should be indicated on the medical
release form and the Group Leader should be made aware of
the prescription requirements. We suggest each Group Leader
collect & then personally distribute prescribed daily medication.
• Take a water break at least once every hour. Drink about two
gallons of water daily. The average person can sweat up to two
quarts or liters of water per hour while doing hard work. Soft
drinks, coffee, and other caffeine drinks are no replacement for
water.

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FUNDRAISING Some thoughts & ideas.
THE LOWDOWN
Many groups don’t have a separate budget for a cross-cultural
mission trip in their overall budgets, but by sharing the experience
with others, groups can raise the necessary funds to come serve.
Some other good reasons for involving the group in fundraisers for
a mission trip are:
• To help group members “own” the trip by investing their time
and effort into raising money.
• To allow those who are unable to go on the trip to personally
participate.
• To foster unity of purpose in the “whole body” when the whole
church or organization can participate in supporting the trip.
• To keep the trip and its purpose foremost in the minds of those
who support the group.
It Is extremely important that people understand the nature of the
trIp. People are tired of seeing fundraisers that benefit only the
participants. They’ll be excited to support this kind of trip once they
understand what it’s all about and their role in this mission. These
types of fundraisers are a great way of making the trip participants
highly visible before the trip!
PARTICIPANT GUIDE
SECTION FIVE : RESOURCES
There are many different fundraising activities that are
worthwhile and successful including:
MEMPHIS BBQ DINNER
Turn a fellowship hall into a Memphis BBQ restaurant and have the
group dress in “Elvis” attire as they serve a basic combination plate
dinner to those who have purchased tickets. Suggested menu:
BBQ or Ribs, coleslaw, rolls, banana pudding & SWEET TEA. Have
volunteer cooks assist with the preparation of the meal. Another
suggestion would be to have the families of the group cook so they
can have a chance to work together.
BAKE SALES AND CAR WASHES
Be creative and add a new angle by having a “sugarless bake
sale”, or a “chocolate-lovers’ bake sale”. For a car wash fundraiser
add a twist like a “car wash and wax” while people pay to hit
leaders of the group with water balloons or whipped cream. The
most successful car washes are FREE with the group participants
getting a pledge-per-car wash from supporters.
BIBLE READING MARATHON
Have members get pledges per hour to read the Bible
continuously. Make it a party! Have group members take turns to
reading in one room while in another have videos or team- building
games that will to encourage them as they invest in their project.
SERVANT AUCTION
Auction off group members to become “servants” working for a set
amount per hour paid to the organization.
INDIVIDUAL SPONSORSHIP
Group members can obtain individual sponsors by personal
request.
SHAREHOLDERS
Supporters and friends can buy a “share” in the trip. Provide ‘stock’
certificates of their importance to the trip and be sure to share the
experience with them after the group returns home.
TALENT SHOW & DESSERT
Encourage all the members/families in your group to participate in a
talent show. Charge admission and enjoy the fun!
ALUMINUM CAN COLLECTION
Set aside a central location or a private garage to collect aluminum
cans for redemption at the local recycling center.
YARD SALE
Collect items from others such as clothing, furniture, car parts,
electrical appliances, etc. for a profitable yard sale. Be sure to
promote the cause while doing so for additional exposure &
donations!
SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS CHALLENGE
Challenge Sunday School classes to compete with each other to
raise money for the trip. Encourage them to keep track of what
they collect and report on it each week. Celebrate with a class
party after the trip with photos and testimonials
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 SECTION FIVE : RESOURCES
LOCATION MAPS

Baptist Memorial Hospital-Memphis

6019 Walnut Grove Road
Memphis, TN 38120
(901) 226-5000

Methodist University Hospital

1265 Union Avenue
Memphis, TN 38104
(901) 516-7000

Regional Medical Center

880 Madison Ave
Memphis, TN 38103-3409
(901) 545-6969

The Grove at Red Oak Lake

849 Rocky Point Rd
Memphis, TN 38018
MAP : PRIMARY HOSPITALS
(901) 729-7292

MAP : PRIMARY INITIATIVES Habitat For Hope / LeBonheur

LeBonheur Children's Hospital
50 North Dunlap Street
Memphis, TN 38103
Refugee Services Memphis Athletic Ministries
Catholic Charities of Memphis Greenlaw Gym
1325 Jefferson Ave 190 Mill Ave
Memphis, TN 38104-2013 Memphis, TN 38105

Refugee Day Camp South Memphis - Homes of Hope

Drop In Center at Woodcrest Apts NationsChurch - South Memphis
170 North Hollywood Street 1605 Patton St
Memphis, TN 38112-3249 Memphis, TN 38106

Urban Farming The Grove at Red Oak Lake

Urban Farms / Market 849 Rocky Point Rd
198 Wills St. Memphis, TN 38018
Memphis, TN 38111

PARTICIPANT GUIDE
(901) 729-7292

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 SECTION FIVE : RESOURCES
PACKING LIST You can check off the items as you pack
so you don’t forget anything.

NEEDED PACKED NEEDED PACKED

  ** All Completed Participant Forms   * * Backpack for your lunch, tools and water bottle
for ministry days.
  ** Any prescription medicines
  * One pair work gloves.
  * Bible, 3 pens, and a small notebook/journal.
  One large paint brush or a paint roller and pan.
  * Shorts. (think inexpensive.. go to a Dollar store for this.)
Remember the weather in Memphis is HOT & we’ll
be outside every day. Think light weight. You’ll   One travel-size container of ANTI-BACTERIAL wet
most likely not be able to do laundry during the wipes (can be found at Walmart or most grocery
trip. Keep in mind you may be sitting on the floor/ stores)
ground and too short is TOO SHORT. If you don’t
know what TOO SHORT is, sit indian-style on the   One bottle of antibacterial hand soap (The lotion
floor and ask your dad to approve of the length. type that does not need to be used with water).

  * Long Pants
Bring jeans or long pants (long pants - not capris)
for work projects that can get dirty or get paint on
them. Surgical scrub pants are lightweight and
MUCH cooler in the HOT Memphis climate (check
Walmart or Costco)
  * * One large plastic jar of peanut butter and one
large plastic jar of jelly or honey. We’ll provide fresh
bread, fruit and water for your yummy PB&J
lunches every day in Memphis. (You’ll CRAVE
them when you get home, we promise!) PACK
THESE IN ZIP LOCK BAGS.

  * T-shirts (light weight/light colored)   Earplugs

Think 5 days- one shirt to work in, one to relax in
at night. If you HAVE to bring tank tops, all tank
tops must have 3 inch straps. Remember, no
spaghetti straps.
  * White T-Shirt Night
Tuesday night is our White T-Shirt Rib Dinner.
Bring a white t-shirt that you can throw away.
Great for sleeping & working!
  * Sunscreen & Insect repellant!!
  * Sandals (for showers & chillaxing)
  One roll of toilet paper to keep in your backpack
for ministry days (trust us!)

  * Pj’s   * Water bottle

  * Swim suit   Sunglasses / Hat

Remember, only one-piece swim suits (if you bring
a two-piece or tankini that shows your belly, we’ll
ask you to wear a shirt over it).
  * Recreation / Lana Schism Clothes
Just trust us. Think sand volleyball clothes.. (T-shirt
& shorts.)
  * Closed Toe Shoes
Bring 1-2 pair of comfortable tennis shoes.
Everyone must wear tennis shoes when we’re
away from the camp. They might get paint on
them or get wet, so we advise two pairs.
  * Camera
Disposables are great, but make sure your name
is on it, as they all look alike. If you bring an
expensive camera, just know it could be a target
for theft.
  * Toiletries
Shampoo, hairbrush, deodorant, toothpaste and
toothbrush.
  * Spending money ($100-$200).
DON’T BRING TRAVELER’S CHECKS or CREDIT
CARDS. You’ll be using this for souvenirs and
snacks at the camp if you want. Also, our guest
music artists will be bringing CD’S for you to
purchase. We recommend bringing twenty-dollar
bills rather than larger bills.
  * Face paint. Bubbles. Deflated Soccer Balls.
Frisbees. (These will be HUGE tools of connection
during the ministry days.)
  * Sleeping Bag & Pillow (we suggest bringing a
twin size sheet as well!)
  OPTIONAL: gifts for the children/refugees. Instead
of candy, bring things like McDonald-type toys,
coloring books/crayons, balloons, bubbles,
stickers, toothbrushes, small soaps/hotel
shampoos, pencils and notebooks.
* = Important Stuff

PARTICIPANT GUIDE
  * Towels and washcloths ** = Very Important Stuff

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 SECTION SIX : FORMS

HOPE EXPERIENCE WAIVER & RELEASE

All participants in the Hope Experience must have a signed and notarized Waiver & Release Form, including adults 19 years and older.
Participants under 19 must have the authorized signature of a Parent/Guardian. No forms can be faxed or mailed to the Hope Experience.
All forms must be given to your Group Leader- which will be turned in to the Hope Experience staff upon group arrival/registration.

Name of Group: ______________________________________________ City / State: ___________________________________________

Name: ______________________________________________ Birthdate: _____ / _____ / _____ Age: _____ Sex: M / F

Address: ______________________________________________ City: ____________________ State: _______ Zip: __________

Shirt Size (circle): S / M / L / XL / XXL

Parent/Guardian: ______________________________________________ Relationship to Participant: ______________________________

Home Phone: ( _____ ) ______________________ Work/Cell Phone: ( _____ ) ________________________
Email: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Camp Location (herein after “camp location”): ________________________________________________________________________________

Event attending:
 Summer Hope Experience  Weekend Hope Experience

Please check which one best describes the attendee (more than one may apply):
 Student  College / Leader In Training  Adult  Youth/Children’s Minister

Consideration
I acknowledge the personal benefits accruing to me (and my child, as applicable) by reason of participation in the above described event
and am aware of the activities in which I, or my child, will be involved through said participation.

Statement Of Activities
Hope Experience,  is a ministry/program of Nations Church, Incorporated, in  Memphis, Tennessee. Nations Church  is a Not For  Profit
Corporation.
Participants will be expected to participate in various forms of service with the Refugee community in Memphis. These activities may
include, but are not limited to, sports day camps, English as Second Language classes, cultural integration activities, as well as other forms
of service designed to build relationships.
Volunteers participating in  Hope Experience  will also be expected to participate in construction activities including  but not limited to,
demolition, roofing, carpentry, digging, painting, flooring, masonry, and other facets of construction. These activities may include, but are not
limited to, the use of power tools such as saws and drills, as well as the use of hand tools. The activities may also require climbing with and
without supplies, tools and materials as well as working in high places such as roofs and other facets of construction work.
Participants will also be involved in food preparation and service.
Participants are not required to engage in any activity in which they feel they are not able to safely participate.

Release / Indemnification
I hereby, in consideration of such benefits and other good and valuable consideration received, consent to the above listed participation and
release absolutely, forever discharge, hold harmless and covenant not to sue Hope Experience, Nations Church, the Hope Experience
venue (“Venue” or “The Grove”), its directors, employees/staff, agents, volunteers, partnerships, and affiliates ("Hope Experience" and
“camp location”) from any and all present or future liability, claims, demands, actions or rights of action, whether asserted by me or a third
party arising out of my (or my child's) participation in event activities (the "Claims"). I agree to indemnify and hold harmless Hope Experience
and Venue for any such Claims brought by me or a third party from any costs associated with defending or litigating such claims, including
but not limited to attorney fees, costs and legal expenses.

Assumption of Risk

RELEASE FORMS
I am aware of the risks associated with participation in the above event and do hereby voluntarily assume full responsibility for any risk of
loss, property damage or personal injury, including death, that may result from participation in event activities.

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 SECTION SIX : FORMS

Medical Emergency
My permission is granted for the camp or event director, church official, any camp or event staffer, or adult present or in charge of first aid,
to obtain necessary medical attention in case of sickness or injury to me or my child. In the event of serious injury or a medical emergency, I
understand that the Group Leader & the Hope Experience Director are responsible for all first aid and medical care decisions. It is their
responsibility to assess medical needs, obtain and consent to appropriate medical care, transport persons in need of medical care and
contact parents or guardians of minors. I release the Hope Experience and Venue from any and all liability related to medical treatment. In
addition, I assume the risk and financial responsibility for any injury resulting from the attendee’s participation in all Hope Experience and
Venue events.

Off-Site Initiatives Authorization Addendum

I acknowledge that during my (or my child’s) participation at Off-Site Initiatives that certain risks do exist. These include, but are not limited
to, the hazards of being in a construction type setting, travel by automobile or shuttle service, the risks involved in leading recreation
games and those existing because of consent of these programs. In consideration of this acknowledgement, I voluntarily have and do
hereby, assume all risk associated with my (or my child’s) participation in these programs.

Understanding
I represent and acknowledge that I have completely read and understand this document and all its terms and all matters referred to herein,
and I signed voluntarily as my free act and deed, that I have had an ample opportunity to obtain the advice of counsel and that, by signing
this document, I understand that I am relinquishing legal rights and remedies that may have otherwise been available to me. I understand
that this Waiver and Release shall be construed as broadly and inclusively as is permitted by applicable law and agree that if any portion of
this document is held invalid, the remaining shall continue in full force and effect. To the extent the restriction on filing lawsuits is deemed
unlawful, I agree to submit any Claims to a Christian conciliation/mediation organization for binding resolution.

Media Consent
I give my consent and permission for the taking of photographs and/or video of me (or my child) during the described event and waive and/
or assign any and all rights (including copyright) in such media to Nations Church, Hope Experience and the Venue. Nations Church, Hope
Experience and the Venue, as the sole owners of such media, shall have the exclusive right to control and determine the use, display,
performance, reproduction and dissemination of any such photographs and/or videos.

Copy to Initiative Supervisors

It is understood and agreed that a copy of these forms (“Waiver & Release” and “Medical Release”) shall be treated as authentic and binding
as the original and that a copy of same shall be provided to the Hope Experience Initiative Supervisors, in case of medical emergency.

CAUTION: READ THIS DOCUMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING.

THIS IS A GENERAL RELEASE AND INDEMNIFICATION OF CLAIMS.
Please check, which applies:  Parent/Guardian  Attendee 19 years of age and older
Participant Signature: ______________________________________________________________

If you are a Parent/Guardian of a Participant who is under 19 years of age, please include the following.
Your Name: ______________________________________________________________
Relationship to Participant: ______________________________________________________________
Contact Number: ______________________________________________________________

Notary Acknowledgement (Notary: please affix seal to both sheets.)

State of __________________________________________________
County of ________________________________________________

Personally appeared before me, ____________________________, who proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person
(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that that h/she/they executed the same in his/her/
their signature(s) on the instrument the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument.
I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State that the foregoing paragraph is true and correct.
WITNESS my hand an official seal.

Notary signature: __________________________________________

RELEASE FORMS
My commission expires: ____________________________________

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 SECTION SIX : FORMS

HOPE EXPERIENCE MEDICAL RELEASE FORM

All participants in the Hope Experience must have a signed and notarized Medical Release Form, including adults 19 years and older.
Participants under 19 must have the authorized signature of a Parent/Guardian. No forms can be faxed or mailed to the Hope Experience.
All forms must be given to your Group Leader- and will be turned in to the Hope Experience staff upon group arrival/registration.

Participant Information
Participant Name: _______________________________________________________________________________________________
Permanent Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________________
Home Phone: ___________________________

Emergency Contact Information

Parent/Guardian: _______________________________________________________________________________________________

Home Phone: (______) ___________________________________ Work Phone: (______) _______________________________

Secondary Contact: __________________________________________ Relationship: _______________________________________

Home Phone: (______) __________________________________ Work Phone: (______) _______________________________

Insurance Information *Attach a copy of your insurance card to this form.

I am covered under my parents’ Medical Insurance Plan: _______ Yes _______ No
If so, name of Insurance Company: ________________________________________________________________________________________
I have Medical Insurance of my own: _____Yes _____ No
If so, name of Insurance Company: ________________________________________________________________________________________
Insurance Policy #: ______________________________________ Insurance Policy Phone #: _______________________________________

Health History (Check - giving approximate dates)

Diseases/Illnesses
Asthma _______________
Bleeding Disorder _______________
Cancer _______________
Chicken Pox _______________
Diabetes _______________
Ear Infections _______________
Eating Disorders _______________
German Measles _______________
Heart Problems _______________
High Blood Pressure _______________
Hypoglycemia _______________
Kidney Problems _______________
Knee Problems _______________
Measles _______________
Mono _______________
Mumps _______________
Recurring Strep Inf. _______________
Respiratory Problems _______________

Allergies
Hay Fever _______________
Insect Stings _______________
Ivy Poisoning _______________
Other _______________
Drug Allergies: List any medication you are allergic to
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

Tetanus – Date of Last Tetanus: _______________ (Obtain Tetanus if you are not current)

Have you been out of the USA in the past 9 months? ______ If so, where? _____________________________________________

Personal Medical Information:

Physician’s Name: __________________________________ Phone: (______)____________________________

Physical Limitations (Asthma, diabetes, allergies, etc.), and/or Special Instructions (Allergic to certain meds, rare blood type, wears contact
lenses, etc.):
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

RELEASE FORMS
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List ALL medication taken on a regular basis and/or any brought with you to Camp. (All prescription medicine MUST have a pharmacy label
and name of doctor.)
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

List all operations/serious injuries and dates within the past five (5) years:
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Emergency Authorization
I hereby give permission to medical personnel selected by the participant’s Group Leader, Hope Experience staff, or Venue staff to order X-
rays, routine tests, and treatment for myself. In the event of an emergency and neither my primary contact nor secondary can be reached,
I hereby give permission to the physician selected by the Authorized Agent to hospitalize, secure proper treatment, order injections and/or
anesthesia an/or surgery to myself as named above.
I further authorize the release of the above medical information to appropriate medical personnel and/or the health coverage insurance
company. In addition, I have, and do hereby, release the church, its employees or agents from liability associated with participation in a
church activity.
I understand that if I do not have medical insurance, I, as the parent or guardian, will be responsible for any medical expenses in the event
of a sickness and/or injury.
I understand that there are risks involved in taking place in recreation activities and other activities related to participation in youth functions.

Signature of Parent/Guardian ________________________________ Date __________________________

Notary Acknowledgement (Notary: please affix seal to both sheets.)

State of __________________________________________________
County of ________________________________________________

Personally appeared before me, ____________________________, who proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person
(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that that h/she/they executed the same in his/her/
their signature(s) on the instrument the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument.
I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State that the foregoing paragraph is true and correct.
WITNESS my hand an official seal.

Notary signature: __________________________________________

My commission expires: ___________________________________

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INFORMED CONSENT/RELEASE OF LIABILITY

You are going to join us on a program involving outdoor and/or indoor Christian activities. We are requesting that all participants sign
an Informed Consent/Release of Liability Form.
I____________________________, the undersigned, agree to participate in The Grove programs using indoor and/or outdoor adventure
learning activities. I acknowledge that I have been advised that I can decline to participate in all of, or any part of, the activities
occurring during the program if I wish. I will only engage in the activities I consider will not put my physical or emotional health at risk. I
hereby hold harmless, release and indemnify The Grove, its employees and its volunteers from any and all liability with relationship to
my participation in any program. This release includes, but is not limited to, the transportation to and from the site of the activities, as
well as the activities themselves and covers all the sessions of a program occurring over time.
I have read this Release and understand its terms. I further represent that I am at least 18 years of age or, if I am under the age of 18,
that my parent/guardian has read and signed this form below.
Participant's Name (Please Print): ______________________________________________________________________
Participant's Signature: _______________________________________ Date: ____________________________
Parent/Guardian's Signature: __________________________________ Date: ____________________________

PHOTO AND MEDIA RELEASE

I _______________________________ , the undersigned, grant The Grove and persons or organizations acting for or through them,
the right to use, reproduce, assign, and/or distribute photographs, films, videotapes and sound recording of myself, for use in
educational or promotional materials they may create.
Participant's Signature: ________________________________________ Date: ___________________________
Parent/Guardian's Signature: ____________________________________ Date: ________________

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