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Sharing Christ’s Cause With Kotzebue
About 30 miles north of the Arctic Circle, the Beautiful Baldwin Peninsula’s northwest shore cradles a picturesque Alaskan village where the summer sun never sets. Kotzebue is nearly surrounded by the serenity of several national parks and is home to mostly Inupiat Eskimos who speak Inupiaq and some English. Interestingly, the village’s name actually means, “almost an island” when translated into English. And if you’ve ever wanted to see into the future, then Kotzebue is the place to be. They’re only about 75 miles from the International Date Line.
Though Kotzebue only has a population of about 3000, it has a quality business sector and serves as a commerce center for several near by villages. Many villagers also make their living by hunting or fishing. And while they do work hard, they like to play hard, too. Sledding, glacier climbing, Eskimo arts and crafts which include ivory carvings and jewelry are popular past-times, and the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics will be a much talked about topic as the summer of 2009 approaches. And speaking of summer, July temperatures in Kotzebue swing between 58 and 70 degrees. 75 is considered unusually hot. So dressing in layers is a good plan.
But in spite of all the gorgeous scenery and the solid work ethic of the people, Kotzebue is presently experiencing an unemployment rate of 12.8% with 0% job growth. The price of gas swings between $4.50 – $5.50 per gallon while a family of 4 spends an average of $230 per week on groceries. The average household income for those who actually have a job is about $56,000, but most homes cost over $200,000.
With hopelessness and depression on the rise, area churches are exploring ways in which they can network together to reach out to the people in Kotzebue and make a difference. This opportunity will include partnering with the churches as we observe and listen to what the local churches would like for us to do in relation to empowering them to share Christ’s cause with their community.
Participants and Possible Activities
As many as 20 students, adults, and / or seniors who are willing to be flexible and willing to be God’s servants are needed. Here are some ways in which individuals, families, and/or groups can contribute alongside the Kotzebue Christians:
- Vacation Bible School
- Relationship Building
- Youth Outreach
- Cooking Crews
- Prayer Walking
- Simple Work Projects
- Leadership Training
Tools of Encouragement
- VBS and Flag Football Supplies
- Cash donations to help offset VBS and Flag Football supply expenses
Strategic Details
- This opportunity will take place from July 18, 2009 through July 25, 2009 Cost is $375 per person for team expenses, not including airfare and souvenir money, and the Isaiah Connection uses a travel agent who’s wonderfully talented
- Bring stuff to do on the plane – it’s a very long flight
- Be sure to bring a driver’s license or some form of identification
- See your health care provider for necessary shots
- Bring an umbrella, mud shoes, suntan lotion, sunglasses, and mosquito repellant
- Eye mask for sound sleeping – Kotzebue does not get very dark at night
Additional Information
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