Frequently Asked Questions

What does it cost to go on an Open Arms trip?

Every trip is different depending on where we’re going and what time of year we’re traveling. For instance, summertime travel is always more expensive than at other times of the year. Team members are responsible for raising their own funds to cover their airfare, accommodations, food and spending money. OAI raises the necessary funds for the actual service work that happens in each country. The average cost for a typical trip in Africa is approximately $3,500-$4,000.

Is there a minimum age a person must be in order to go on an Open Arms trip? Is there a maximum allowable age?

An applicant must be at least 18 years of age to go on an OAI trip without a parent or guardian. Individuals under the age of 18 may be eligible to go on an trip if OAI gives its approval AND if a parent or guardian accompanies the individual on the trip. We address all underage applicants on a case-by-case basis. OAI believes that it is important for teenagers to experience life in other countries, so please don’t hesitate to ask. 
There is no maximum age limit for prospective team members. If an individual is in good physical and mental health, age is not a concern. For individuals age 70 and above, there will be a special interview process with OAI management prior to formal approval for team involvement.

What is the geographic scope of Open Arms' work?

Historically, OAI’s primary focus has been central, east Africa, and one area in southeastern India. For the foreseeable future, these are the areas where we will concentrate our efforts. However, as the organization grows and develops we may begin to take teams to other parts of Africa and India as well as countries in other parts of the world.

What types of skills or experience does a person need in order to be an effective member of a team?

No specific skills or experience are required, although certain skill sets and experience are helpful for some of the work we do. People who don't have specific skill sets or experience can still be very effective on a team and can serve as assistants in both the medical clinics and in the area of children's programs. There are also practical ways for people to assist with the ministry aspects of our trips. 
Areas where we do have need for specific skill sets and experience are:

• The medical clinics - We need doctors, nurses, dentists, dental hygienists, paramedics, medical technicians, etc
• Children's programs - We need workers who have experience working with children as well as teachers.
• Pastors' conferences - We need qualified Bible teachers and those who can teach Christian ministry leadership.
• Ministry events - We need those gifted in ministry; those who can share their faith through drama, music, speaking and one-on-one counseling.
• Construction - We need experienced contractors and construction workers who can build new projects and who can oversee the renovation of other projects. We also need individuals experienced in water engineering to assist us in setting up filtration systems, digging wells and building water tanks.

How do I sign up to go on a trip?

The first step is to decide which upcoming OAI trip you want to go on. Once you’ve decided, download the application form from the website, fill it out, and mail it in to us with your $250 deposit. We recommend submitting your application form no later than 90 days prior to the departure date for the intended outreach (although the more notice we have, the better prices you can obtain on flights). Often, we must purchase tickets 90 days prior to our departure date.

Besides turning in an accepted application form, are there any other requirements for team members prior to departure?

If your application is approved, there are three or more required team meetings spanning a two month period prior to departure. These meetings are mandatory and prospective team members must be in attendance. Absence from a team meeting must be approved in advance and will only be excused under special circumstances. These meetings are designed to disseminate important information, develop relationships, and assign team members with the specific roles they will fulfill on the outreach. Appropriate vaccinations and visa requirements will also be addressed during these meetings, as they are required for entry into most of the countries where we work.

Is Open Arms International affiliated with any particular Christian denomination?

No, OAI is not affiliated with any one denomination.