FINANCIAL/ MONEY DETAILS
How much money do I need to raise?
The cost varies depending on city of departure and service projects during the trip but it is estimated that the 2011 trip to South Sudan will cost $4,000.
How do I raise funds?
There are many unique ways to raise funds for your trip: mailing support letters, garage sales, hosting a “Sip ‘n Swap”, etc. Our staff is here to help guide you with advice and best practices of others. A sample fundraising letter can be emailed to you upon request.
Where should the donations be sent and to whom should checks be made out?
Your supporters can donate funds for your trip in three ways:
• Telephone: They may call Four Corners Ministries (FCM) at (256) 610-3564 to complete a credit card donation.
• Mail: They may mail checks made out to FCM to Post Office Box 161, Wedowee, Alabama 36278. They should include your name in the memo line of the check to ensure it is applied to your account.
• Online: They may make a donation using most major credit cards at the FCM Trip Donations page on our website at www.4cornersministries.org
If I can’t go, can I (and my supporters) get a refund?
FCM is a 501(c) 3 charity and because of this, we cannot refund donations. Please keep in mind that the funds you raise must be solicited and donated with the understanding that FCM has complete discretion and control over the use of all donated funds. In order for the funds donated to allow a tax deduction, they are not yours, or contingent upon your ultimate participation, but FCM’s funds to be used to further its charitable purposes.
How soon will my donated funds be processed?
If you call in a donation, the card will be charged immediately. If a donation is made online, the card will be charged within three business days. If a donation is sent via mail, allow at least 10 business days for processing.
TRIP LOGISTICS
What does a FCM trip look like?
After arriving in Mundri, South Sudan, you will work through our partner ministry, Sudan Strategic Christian Advocacy (SSCA). The April 2011 trip will emphasize veterinary work that will consist of vaccinating, deworming, and treating sick cattle, sheep, and goats. The group will attend a local church on Sunday. The trip will be led by Jason and Jennifer Johnson.
Where will I stay?
You will stay in a safe and secure compound owned and operated by SSCA. Each day you will be served three traditionally African meals.
What do the people think about us coming?
Many of the people you will be working with have been waiting for your arrival for months. They are excited and amazed that you would come all the way from America to help empower the work that God is already doing through their lives.
Will I get sick from the food or water?
The food prepared by our hosts is completely safe. Of course, we cannot ensure that you will not contract a food-borne illness while serving in South Sudan. We recommend that you bring over-the-counter medicine with you. You may also talk to your physician about a prescription antibiotic.
TRAVEL
Do I need a passport?
Yes! Please go to http://travel.state.gov/ for more information regarding passports. Your passport must have at least 2 blank pages and be valid six months past your departure date from the country you are visiting. Please make copies of your passport to leave at home with family and/or friends as a reference in the event you misplace your passport during your trip.
Do I need a visa?
For travel to South Sudan you will need a visa. FCM staff will obtain this visa through the South Sudan Embassy in Kampala, Uganda. The cost of the visa is included in your overall trip cost.
How long does it take to get to Africa?
FCM trips to South Sudan arrive in Entebbe, Uganda. The average flight to Entebbe is 16 hours from Atlanta, Georgia.
How many bags can I pack?
Baggage requirements vary by airline and intra-Africa flights. The current standards for KLM Airlines and Delta Airlines are 50 lbs. per checked bag. You are limited to two checked bags. After arriving in Entebbe, you will board a charter flight via Mission Aviation Fellowship where you are allowed to take one personal bag, not weighing more than 30lbs.
Can I use my frequent flyer miles to pay for my flight?
To use your own Frequent Flyer miles, you would need to arrange your own flights. It would be vital that your flight arrangements coincide with FCM flights. (Please see answer below “Can I arrive early or stay later?” for clear understanding of your responsibilities if you arrange your own flights).
Can I earn Frequent Flyer miles on my FCM flights?
To log frequent flyer miles you will need to provide your number to the ticket agent at the time of check in at the airport.
Can I arrive early or stay later?
Yes, but you will need to make your own travel arrangements and you are required to confirm them with FCM by emailing tripp@4cornersministries.org. You will also be responsible for meeting the group at the airport or hotel in Entebbe. If you arrange your own air travel, FCM will not be responsible for connecting you with the group; this will be your responsibility.
Do I need shots?
Check with your doctor, health department, or visit www.cdc.gov to see what shots are recommended for Sudan. If you have any questions or concerns contact FCM.