No, Many Hands is a non-profit corporation formed and staffed by volunteers. We have no formal affiliation with the UMC or any other church or organization. While our previous work teams have traveled to South Africa under the auspices of UMVIM (United Methodist Volunteers in Mission), our team members have come from Methodist, Lutheran, Southern Baptist, Salvation Army, and other congregations. Some are not church members at all. We are happy to work with any individual, church, or group whose motives and intentions are consistent with our mission to seek out, promote, and support opportunities for teams of volunteers to work in their own communities, across the nation, and around the world.

How do you choose your projects?

We have to be invited to participate in a project. Once we are invited, our directors choose to form or support a work team based on our analysis of whether the project fits our organization in terms of focus, values and logistics.

How can I join a work team?

Take a look at our upcoming projects and if you see one that interests you, email or call us at 619-224-3273 to discuss how you can get involved.

Do I have to have any special skills to join a work team?

No, there is always work for everyone to do. Most Work Team volunteers have never done any building work before, but you will learn. Team leaders and local craftsmen help to train unskilled team members at the work site in learning how to lay bricks, etc. There are also other things to do at the work site, for example writing on bricks that have been dedicated by people who have given a donation to Many Hands Foundation through our Buy A Brick program.

Are there any age restrictions for joining a work team?

Yes and No. We have had team members from teens to octogenarians. We do specify that anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

How many people are on a work team?

Typically anywhere from 16 to 24 people.

Will I have the opportunity to meet and interact with local people?

Yes! Many local volunteers join us in working on our projects. Working side by side on a daily basis offers a wonderful opportunity to make new friends from a different culture. We also try to seek out other opportunities to get involved in the local community while we are working on a project.

What about accommodations for Work Teams?

Many Hands makes arrangements for food and lodging for volunteers in settings that will be safe and comfortable. For the upcoming Dundonald 2006 project, for example, volunteers will be housed at a local resort that offers rondavels (cabin-like structures) that sleep 4 with a living area, bath and kitchen. Volunteers take turns cooking breakfasts and dinners for the work team, though you will have a few meals out in restaurants as well. Lunches are typically prepared at the work site by local church ladies.

How will I get to the Project site?

Many Hands makes the travel arrangements for Work Team members. In many cases, several team members will meet in the city in which the international flight originates and fly on the same flight to the destination airport. Many Hands team leaders will either accompany you on your flight or meet you at the destination airport. Many Hands has rental vehicles to transport team members from the airport to lodging and work sites

What do I need to do to prepare for a project?

Many Hands will keep Work Team members informed about necessary actions to take to make sure that you have information about passports, proper immunizations, clothing and supplies as we prepare for the project.

Will I have fun!