Expert Tips for Forming Strong Mission Trip Teams

When forming your short term mission trip team, you might think about who you should ask to join. What kind of people make up a strong mission team? Where do you start as a mission trip leader? Here are some great ideas for the mission trip recruiting process.

Screen Team Members

Each potential traveler should undergo a screening process. Examples of eligibility requirements could include:

• Good health
• Parental approval for minors
• Verification of personal health, life, and property insurance.

Foreign travel often involves risks not covered by most U.S. insurance policies. This makes travel insurance especially critical for mission trip travelers.

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A screening process can help avoid health emergencies while the team is in the field and ensure that travelers have insurance protection if they become injured or ill. Try to match people with trips they can handle. Some are more physically demanding than others.

Recruit Someone with a Medical Background

As the team takes shape, try to recruit at least one person who has a medical background or has undergone first-aid training. Having a team member with medical training can be helpful if someone gets sick or injured while on the field.

Designate Qualified Trip Leaders

Designating qualified trip leaders is another good way to increase safety. Ideally, trip leaders will have multiple mission trips under their belts – preferably in the place where the team is going. It’s helpful for trip leaders to have existing relationships with the host missionaries and understand the cultural differences when traveling to the area. Train leaders to handle emergencies: what to do, who to call for help, and how to keep team members calm in an emergency situation.

Article adapted from The Deacon’s Bench, a publication of Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company. Used with permission.