At CUMC we are committed to making Volunteers In Missions (VIM) experiences possible for everyone. Last year, approximately 60 members of our congregation, ages 16 to 70, traveled locally, nationally, and internationally to aid those in need. This year, our goal is to increase that number to 100.

As a mission participant, you can provide disaster relief in Mississippi, training in Kenya, help build a house locally for a worthy low income family, or spend time with children in an urban setting. There are literally hundreds of opportunities available through the Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church.

For 2008, and beyond, Volunteers In Missions is using a BLOG format that will enable those on Mission trips to POST to the BLOG while on missions and provide for interative cummunication and prayer with the congregation.

We have a number of VIM opportunities planned for 2008. Everyone is welcome to participate, so contact us at info@communityunitedmethodist.org if you are interested.

• United Methodist Church PRIMETIMERS - for those 50 through 90
• CUMC sponsored Events
• Additional VIM opportunities

Also, don't forget to check out the Northern Illinois Conference Missions Banquet this year in Sycamore, IL. Contact Mavis (almavisS@wowway.com) for more information.

FIFTY IS NIFTY- & So is 60, 70, & 80! Being a Volunteer in Mission can change your life and bring you closer to God and neighbor.

• KENTUCKY (April 20-26) The Life and Spirit of Appalachia; Henderson Settlement $465*
• WASHINGTON (May 4-10) Faith Adventures in the Great Northwest Ocean Park Retreat Center $615*
• MACEDONIA (May 14-26) Uncovering the Treasures of Macedonia UMC of Macedonia $1650*
• NEW YORK (June 8-13) A Global Perspective on Current Issues UMC Center - New York City $895*
• NEW MEXICO (October 11-18) McCurdy School - Espanola $540*
• LOUISIANA (October 19-25) Life on the Bayou Teche: UMCOR Sager Brown $570*
• GEORGIA (November 9-14) All Creatures Great and Small St. Simons Island $585*

*Cost does not include travel. Google: united methodist church primetimers link: 2008 events for more info or http://new.gbgm-umc.org/connections/volunteers/primetimers Early registration is highly recommended! The CUMC Missions Team is interested in your plans, please inform Larry Kahler larrymkahler@comcast.net if you plan a trip.

• NOMADS - offers persons with RVs the opportunity to share skills at UMC building sites. Google: united methodist church nomads for information or http://www.nomadsumc.org for list of sites
• YOUNG ADULT SUMMER MISSION INTERNSHIP (June 1 - Aug. 9) Service at UMC Sites in the United States Will receive $1,000 stipend plus expenses Qualifications: Ages 19-25; one year of college required Applications at http://new.gbgm-umc.org/connections/youth/

The CUMC Missions Team is interested in your plans, inform Larry Kahler larrymkahler@comcast.net if you plan a trip.