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Aug 2021 — Jun 2022
Pacific Rim | 2021
Spread the love of Christ as you experience the beauty and wildly diverse cultures of the Pacific Coast.
Squad is in the Field
A Hub Model of International Engagement:
We are passionate about partnering with ministries that we know and trust, and who continue to minister sustainably in their communities with or without us. Our new hub model will enable us to serve our partners more effectively while also giving Racers great opportunities to engage in a variety of ministries!
Each region will have a hub country (
) with a host that we have a deep relationship with. Racers will receive cultural and ministry training from hub leaders that will prepare them to effectively engage in their region. Then hub leaders will work with the squad leadership and will mobilize them to meet needs and engage in ministry opportunities () in surrounding countries.
Thus, your squad will go to the hub countries listed on your route, and you may go to any number of the surrounding countries in which we have ministry opportunities, depending on the current needs and opportunities available. And it is going to be AMAZING!
*This is, of course, dependant on the availability of ministry and openness of the country to international visitors.
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Route Guides
Beka Hardy
Program Exec
Read Bio
Ever since I can remember, I wanted to be a missionary. It was my dream to travel the world and tell people about Jesus. I loved the stories of adventure and exploration, while helping people along the way. Little did I know, the journey would unlock something so much deeper for me.
In 2013, I launched on the World Race and everything started to change. I learned that I was so loved by the Father. He loved me, not because of what I could do for Him, but because of who I was, His beloved daughter. I began to see His deep love, not only for me, but also for His bride and His world. I saw that nothing could possibly make Him happier than having His kids back together with Him. This transformed me and I know that I will spend the rest of my life telling people about His extravagant love for them.
Beka Hardy
Elder
Read Bio
Ever since I can remember, I wanted to be a missionary. It was my dream to travel the world and tell people about Jesus. I loved the stories of adventure and exploration, while helping people along the way. Little did I know, the journey would unlock something so much deeper for me.
In 2013, I launched on the World Race and everything started to change. I learned that I was so loved by the Father. He loved me, not because of what I could do for Him, but because of who I was, His beloved daughter. I began to see His deep love, not only for me, but also for His bride and His world. I saw that nothing could possibly make Him happier than having His kids back together with Him. This transformed me and I know that I will spend the rest of my life telling people about His extravagant love for them.
Karen Christianson
Coach
Read Bio
Keith and Karen Christianson have been married 28 years, and have two sons: Trevor (24) and Casey (21). They live about 70 miles west of Chicago in Rockford, Illinois. Keith continues to lead a small graphic design business, which he helped start 20 years ago. Karen works part-time as a tutor for high school students and serves as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for abused and neglected children. Since 2008, Keith and Karen have been leading short-term mission trips to the Dominican Republic, where their teams of high school and college students build homes and minister to the children in some of the poorest communities surrounding Santo Domingo. Keith and Karen believe their role as World Race coaches is the next step in a journey in which God has been teaching them to love more freely, depend on Him more fully, and work to further His kingdom.
Keith Christianson
Coach
Read Bio
Keith and Karen Christianson have been married 28 years, and have two sons: Trevor (24) and Casey (21). They live about 70 miles west of Chicago in Rockford, Illinois. Keith continues to lead a small graphic design business, which he helped start 20 years ago. Karen works part-time as a tutor for high school students and serves as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for abused and neglected children. Since 2008, Keith and Karen have been leading short-term mission trips to the Dominican Republic, where their teams of high school and college students build homes and minister to the children in some of the poorest communities surrounding Santo Domingo. Keith and Karen believe their role as World Race coaches is the next step in a journey in which God has been teaching them to love more freely, depend on Him more fully, and work to further His kingdom.
Austin Ulsh
Advisor
Read Bio
Hey. My name is Austin. My father is a big Dallas Cowboys fan and wanted to name me Dallas, but my mom was definitely not naming her child Dallas(thanks mom!). Since Austin is a city in Texas, it was negotiated to be my name. I love the Fall and spring. They are my favorite times of the year, also the best times of the year to go for a run(or motorcycle ride), which I love as well. I also love ultimate frisbee, tennis, volleyball, football and other sports activities. Also I have no shame and fully comfortable in saying that I love Channing Tatum. He's a good looking man who can dance. Just sayin'
Where They're Going - What They’ll Do
Central America
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Location: Granada
Ministry: REAP Granada / Adventures in Missions Base
Focus: Prayer Walking, Sports Ministry, Community Outreach, Prison Ministry, Community Development.
Called “The Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” thick rainforests, rugged highlands, and beautiful beaches define Nicaragua’s landscape. Its rich history dates back to the Spanish conquistadores. However, hopelessness, addiction, destitution, and poverty plague many in Nicaragua. The poorest nation in Central America, almost 80% of Nicaraguans live on less than $2 a day. One in four Nicaraguans is either starving or suffering from malnutrition. Entire families live on and scrounge for scraps in city dumps. The people of Nicaragua need to know they are seen, loved, and not forgotten by God.
Our Adventures in Missions base and ministry partner, REAP Granada, believes that transformation in Nicaragua happens through relationship. These relationships come from various Touchpoints in the community. Ranging from meeting people on the basketball court to working together on the farm to discipling men and women in Bible study, Touchpoints drive both our mission and vision to transform lives through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
View Country PageOpportunities
Guatemala
Continent: Central America
Focus: Church Activation, Discipleship, Community Development
Known as "The Land of Eternal Spring,” Guatemala is one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in Central America. Tourists travel from all over the world just to climb its volcanoes, drink its coffee, and zip line through the rainforest. However, the true beauty of Guatemala is its people.
Come alongside our Adventures in Missions base in Antigua as they equip and activate the Guatemalan church into local and international missions. Learn and serve alongside Guatemalans as they share the Gospel with their neighbors. Serve the community through helping with kids programs and feeding programs.
Costa Rica
Continent: Southern Central America
Focus: Children's Ministry, Sports Ministry, Community Outreach
A hot spot for surfing, Costa Rica is an adventure-seeker’s paradise. Between its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and beautiful people, it’s easy to enjoy "pura vida" there. Outside of the tourist destinations, however, are large pockets of poverty and broken families throughout the nation. The country itself is transitioning from self-sufficient farming societies to more urban living. Traditional morals and lifestyles are giving way to a modern, consumer-oriented world.
Join our Adventures in Missions Costa Rica base as they reach San Jose and the rest of the country with the Gospel. Serve families by providing children’s programs, build friendships with other young people through skateboarding outreaches, among other ministry outreaches in the community!
Panama
Continent: Southern Central America
Focus: Community Outreach, Manual Labor
Home to the Panama Canal and the largest rainforest outside of the Amazon, the country of Panama connects Central and South America. And thanks to the Canal, which connects the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic, Panama is one of the leading economies in Central America. But the Panama Canal is a two-edged sword, because it also allows for increased drug trafficking. Panama sits at a place of power of opportunity in the world, as it holds the key to crossing between oceans, hemispheres, and continents. Will you live your faith in this land of possibility and potential?
Join with ministry partners like IC Jesus to share the Gospel with indigenous people groups, ministry to people who are deaf, as well as assisting with hands-on construction projects.
El Salvador
Continent: Central America
Focus: Children's Ministry, Community Outreach
The smallest country in Central America, El Salvador is the most densely populated nation in the region. Because of its geographic location, El Salvador has a long history of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and hurricanes. These severe weather conditions have deeply impacted the economy. Several El Salvadorans live in other countries. The remaining are at risk for gang influence and violence due to poverty, family disintegration, and lack of education. El Salvador literally means “the Savior,” and its people are looking for just that. Will you share the security of God’s love and acceptance in El Salvador?
Join with the local church as they meet physical and spiritual needs in their communities.
Belize
Continent: Central America
Focus: Children's Ministry, Community Outreach
Known for its ancient Mayan ruins, the largest cave system in Central America, and one of the largest barrier reefs in all of the world—including the Great Blue Hole, Belize is an adventurer’s paradise. But beyond the resorts and tourist attractions, the people of Belize are searching for hope. The nation has the lowest literacy rate in the Western Hemisphere. Almost half of the population are Roman Catholic and 32% Protestant Christian, yet only about 10% regularly attend any religious service. Will you share the hope of abundant life in Christ in Belize?
Honduras
Continent: Central America
Focus: Children's Ministry, Community Outreach
From its mountains and Mayan ruins to the Caribbean sea, Honduras offers the history, beauty, and adventure you expect in Central America. However, its people are struggling. Home to over eight million people, a third of the population is under the age of 14. It's also the third poorest country in the region, with almost 60% either unemployed or underemployed. Many families struggling to survive send their kids to beg or steal. The youth often join gangs and abuse drugs, such as paint thinner, to get high. Will you share the love of Jesus in a country hungry for hope?
Join local churches and organizations as they reach their country with the Gospel and help meet the physical needs of their neighbors.
South America
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Location: Quito
Ministry: Inca Link / Adventures in Missions base
Focus: Special Needs Ministry, Sex Trafficking Ministry, Refugee Ministry
Ecuador is a small country in South America but it is big on culture, hospitality and adventure. Its active volcanoes and lush jungles as well as the Galapagos Islands attract thousands of tourists every year. Known for its relatively stable economy, it has recently become a large hub for refugees from Venezuela. God is doing amazing things in Ecuador as the local church is being strengthened to reach their neighbors with the Gospel.
Serve alongside our ministry partner and Adventures in Missions Ecuador base, Inca Link! Inca Link is focused on resourcing, enabling and empowering their national Inca Link organizations to reach the 300 million youth in Latin America with Christ’s irresistible love.
View Country PageOpportunities
Colombia
Continent: Northern South America
Focus: Community Development, Church Ministry, Drug Rehab
In the past Medellin, Colombia has been a center of violence, drug trafficking, and gangs. In the past 30 years the city has been making a turnaround, but there is still so much need here. Many families have been affected by poverty, violence, drug addiction, and homelessness. Most recently, coronavirus has caused a huge wave of unemployment, leaving many families in poverty and hunger.
Our ministry partner Ciudad Refugio has become a city on a hill focused on serving the city and meeting tangible needs. Serving as a drug rehab center, a homeless shelter, a job training center, a church, and many more, Ciudad Refugio is showing the love of Jesus and reversing brokenness in this city.
Peru
Continent: Western South America
Focus: Church Ministry, Children's Ministry, College Ministry
From the breathtaking Andes mountains and vast coastal deserts to the lush, tropical rainforests of the Amazon Jungle, Peru is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth. The birthplace of several proud, ancient civilizations, present day Peru is home to multiple indigenous groups who blend into a unique and beautiful culture. Sadly, the people of Peru struggle with extreme poverty and class inequality. Government corruption hinders economic development, and many people face problems like teenage pregnancy, substance abuse, and crime. Will you share God’s love with people hungry for hope?
There are literally hundreds of churches across the city of Lima, each with a vision to see the city transformed by the Gospel. The vision for ministry partner, RAMAS (which means “branches” in Spanish) is to create a deeply connected network of ministries and churches that serve together for the sake of the Kingdom. The vision is to connect churches across Lima, Peru to empower and build up the Kingdom of God. Serve alongside local churches as they serve their communities. Help the local church evangelize children, families, college students. Watch the Gospel transform the largest city in South America.
Argentina
Continent: Southern South America
Focus: Children's Ministry, Community Development
Known as a Crisol de Razas, or “a crucible of races,” Argentina is the largest Spanish-speaking country in South America and the 8th largest country in the world. It is a nation of immigrants, where the mix of languages and cultures have created something all its own. It is also a nation of tradition. And while 92% declare Roman Catholicism as their religion, only 20% actively practice it. The people of Argentina long for a relationship with Christ. Will you share your faith in Argentina?
Come alongside the local church as they reach their neighbors with the good news of Jesus.
Chile
Continent: Southern South America
Focus: Children's Ministry, Community Development
Because Chile stretches two-thirds the length of South America, it is home to an impressively varied climate: from the world’s driest desert in the north to Patagonia in the south. It is a country rich in history, culture, and the arts, and is a popular tourist destination in South America. Chile is also one of the most prosperous and successful countries on the continent, with a high standard of living and continual economic growth. About 85% of its people live in major cities, with the rest of the population in more rural areas. There is so much this beautiful country has to offer the world. Will you serve God and join where He is at work in Chile?
Brazil
Continent: Eastern South America
Focus: Children's Ministry, Community Development
The fifth largest country in size and sixth in population, Brazil is a rising superpower in the world’s economy. From the Amazon jungle to the shores of Rio, this geographically diverse nation is also home to a significant evangelical population and many missionaries. However, while across the nation large-scale events celebrate Christ, crime, homelessness, and poverty are serious issues in Brazil. Those trapped in poverty and feeling forgotten need to know God sees and cherishes them. Jesus is on the move in Brazil. Join local ministries as they meet physical and spiritual needs in Brazil. Will you be His hands and feet in this beautiful country?
Southeast Asia
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Location: Chiang Mai
Ministry: Adventures in Missions Thailand Base
Focus: Church Planting, Anti Trafficking Ministry, Unreached People Groups
Thailand is known by many as “The Land of Smiles”. Though an alluring tourist destination, Thailand’s glimmering cities and sandy beaches are marred by the dark reputation of sex trafficking and sex tourism. Nearly 90% of the population is unreached with the Gospel.
Here you will have the opportunity to reveal the truth of Jesus to a deeply unreached country by helping train and encourage local believers to share the Gospel with their neighbors and plant churches, which will multiply to more churches. You will intercede for those trapped in human trafficking through prayer walks and come alongside organizations that are helping rescue and restore those caught in the sex trade industry.
Opportunities
Cambodia
Continent: Southeast Asia
Focus: Community Outreach, Children's Ministry, Evangelism, Unreached People Groups
From the charming city of Siem Reap to the wondrous temples of Angkor Wat, the Kingdom of Cambodia fascinates and inspires. As you ride a tuk-tuk down dusty village roads surrounded by flooded rice paddies, you might see houses built on stilts or crumbling Buddhist temples. Even after a devastating genocide wiped out a generation, the Cambodian people are moving forward with a hopeful outlook and a generous heart.
With Buddhism being the largest religion, the task remaining in Cambodia is large with 98% of the population unreached with the Gospel. Come alongside the local church as we train and equip believers to reach their neighbors. Serve in a variety of practical ways, helping meet the needs of children and families.
Adventures in Missions has bases in Thailand and Cambodia, each with a large network of ministry partners throughout their countries and Southeast Asia.
Malaysia
Continent: South Asia
Focus: Prayer Ministry, Community Outreach
Located in Southeast Asia, Malaysia has one of the most competitive economies in all of Asia. Known for the tallest twin towers in the world, the Petronas Towers, it is a rising power in our global economy. With a large number of immigrants from India, Thailand, China, and Burma, Malaysia is culturally rich, with heavy influences of Hinduism and Buddhism. However, this culturally diverse and rapidly developing nation is mostly Muslim. With over half the population practicing Islam and other religions, the majority of Malaysians have never heard the Gospel. Will you share the love of Jesus in Malaysia?
Partner with local ministries who emphasize intercession for their country and community projects that demonstrate the love of Jesus.
Myanmar
Continent: Southeast Asia
Focus: Unreached People Groups
Myanmar’s story is of a struggle for independence. Political groups have fought an ongoing war in this country for over 60 years. Commonly called Burma, but officially the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, political unrest and human right violations have led to nearly 200,000 refugees residing within Myanmar and neighboring countries like Thailand. Natural disasters, a sinking economy, and corrupt government have led to despair and poverty for many Burmese. Will you share hope and freedom with refugees, the lost, and the broken, in a country hungry for peace?
Laos
Continent: Southeast Asia
Focus: Unreached People Groups
The only landlocked country in Southeast Asia, Laos is home to some of most unreached hill tribes in the world. Following a brutal civil war, Laos came under communist rule in 1975. Today, more than a third of Laos’ population lives below the international poverty line. The government has been accused of corruption and violating human rights against a minority tribe called the Hmong people. The majority of Laotians practice Buddhism and spirit worship. Christian missionary work is often monitored by the government. Will you live the Gospel in a nation where the name of Jesus is not known?
Indonesia
Continent: South Asia
Focus: Evangelism, Unreached People Groups
Composed of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the largest island nation on earth. Though it has the 4th largest population in the world, barely a third of Indonesia’s islands are inhabited. The rest are so densely forested that they rival the Amazon jungle in their beauty and inaccessibility. Indonesia’s motto of “Many, yet one,” refers to its incredible diversity as a symbol of its unity. Over 700 languages are spoken throughout the country, which is the largest Muslim nation on earth. Will you share the unifying love of Jesus in this diverse country?
Philippines
Continent: Southeast Asia
Focus: Youth Ministry, Church Ministry, Feeding Program
Known for its diverse terrain of mountains, volcanoes, and beaches, the Philippines is a popular haven for tourists. A melting pot of cultures, religion, and tradition, the beautiful people of the Philippines are very diverse, with influences from America, Spain, and other Asian countries. More than a getaway for Westerners, this 7,000 island archipelago is home to many who earn less than 15 cents per day—giving them the status of “ultra poor”. In order to survive, some have resorted to prostitution and human trafficking. Will you share the freedom of life in Christ in the Philippines?
Serve with local ministries as they meet the needs of abandoned children and the poor by “showing” them the Gospel.
Vietnam
Continent: Southeast Asia
Focus: Student Ministry
After nearly a century of French rule, Vietnam split into the communist (north) and non-communist (south) in the 1950’s. Conflict between the two sides led to the Vietnam War. But by 1975, Vietnam was a completely communist country. Even with the economic reforms and restoration of diplomatic ties, human rights are limited in Vietnam—especially freedom of religion. A majority of Vietnamese are Buddhist or don’t claim any religion at all. Vietnam’s story is one of searching and fighting for freedom. Will you live your faith in a country where you might not be able to say the name “Jesus”?
*Routes may change if unforeseen issues arise.
Active Squad
Squad is the term we use at the World Race to describe the 30-45 people traveling with you on your route this year!
Squad
Team Name: Riptide
View team blogs
Gabi Gifford
Norman, OK
Jackson Juska
Glen Cove, NY
Gwen Martin
Williston, SC
Michaela Roys
Hilliard, OH
Caitlyn Smith
ABILENE, Texas
Colton Syler
Minneapolis, MN
Abby Withers
Moselle, MS
Team Name: Ruach
View team blogs
Brittany Coleman
Joliet, IL
Talaya Coleman
JOLIET, IL
Daliah Huff
Westminster, MD
Emmery Johnson
Clover, SC
Lauren Johnson
Bismarck, ND
Katie Ross
GRAND RAPIDS, MN
Chanel Thorpe
Columbus, OH
Team Name: SQL - Sweet Baby Rays
View team blogs
Jacob Chesser
Boerne, TX
Katherine Jeane
Greenbrier, Arkansas
NicoleM Torres
Peoria, Arizona
Team Name: Thunder
View team blogs
Lindsey Crown
Clermont, FL
Makalah Davis
Urbana, IL
Jessica Jacoby
Merrimack, NH
Kaley Moorhead
Oakley, CA
Samantha Rouse
Greensboro, NC
Allie White
Columbus, IN
Aliseya Williams
Macon, GA
