The Bunker’s Puerto Rico Mission Trip: A Journey of Service and Growth

Years ago, we had a vision—to take a group of our students on a mission trip. While we didn’t know how or when it would happen, it remained a goal close to our hearts. After months of seeking God’s guidance, our prayers were answered, and the opportunity to partner with The Bunker Puerto Rico became a reality!

Every two years (when possible), we assemble a team of students to travel to Puerto Rico and collaborate with the church affiliated with The Bunker Puerto Rico. This mission trip offers students a chance to serve the community, grow in their faith, and build lasting connections.

Preparation & Commitment

The trip requires a full year of preparation, including:

• Team Building: Strengthening relationships and trust
• Training: Equipping students with the skills needed for the mission field
• Fundraising: Ensuring financial readiness and fostering a sense of responsibility

Our goal is to prepare students as much as possible for the two-week journey, so they arrive in Puerto Rico ready to serve and open to new experiences.

A Transformative Experience

For many students, this trip is truly life-changing. Those who may not experience a profound transformation still find it to be an eye-opening journey—broadening their perspectives and deepening their understanding of service and compassion.

For more information about this program or to get involved, please contact Kevin Hildebrand.

• Volunteer Opportunities & Selection Process

  • Volunteer opportunities for the trip begin in Spring 2024, and all who sign up will be invited to participate.
  • The final team selection will be made by Kevin, and other trip leaders based on:
    • Engagement in volunteer opportunities
    • Attitude toward tasks and fellow participants
  • The team will likely be finalized by October 2024 (potentially earlier or later).

  Team Building & Training

  • Once selected, participants will begin monthly team-building meetings and training.

  Changing Your Commitment

  • If selected, you have until January 2024 to decide if you can commit to the trip.
  • After January, withdrawing may be challenging due to potential ticket bookings.
  • Any funds you raised will go into the general Puerto Rico fund to support the trip (e.g., VBS supplies, unexpected expenses).

  Fundraising Expectations

  • You are responsible for raising your own funds.
  • Fundraised amounts are not pooled and divided equally. You receive a portion based on your participation in each fundraiser.
  • Examples of fundraising activities include city garbage clean-up and catering events.
  • If your fundraising goal is not met, you must cover the remaining balance no later than 1 month before departure.

  Volunteer Requirements

  • Volunteering is as important as fundraising!
  • Some events will be for volunteering only (no fundraising credit). These events help assess how well you work with the team and complete assigned tasks.
  • Skipping meetings, lack of involvement, or poor engagement in volunteering, fundraising, and team-building may result in you being replaced on the team.

  Trip Details

  • The trip is approximately two weeks long, typically occurring in late June to early July, once the school year ends.

  If you have any questions or need further clarification, please reach out to the trip leaders. We look forward to an impactful and rewarding experience together!