Costa Rica Missions Trip 2026

July 4–12, 2026 

What We’re Doing 

We’re heading back to Costa Rica for another incredible opportunity to serve and grow together in faith! Since 2016, Community Church has partnered with Students International, a long-term missions organization that focuses on relationship-based ministry.
Rather than giving volunteers “busy work,” Students International integrates our team directly into their ongoing local outreach. You’ll be serving alongside full-time missionaries through areas like:
Sports ministry

  • Tutoring and education
  • Microfinance and job training
  • Community development and service projects

Team members stay in host homes, sharing meals, faith, and daily life with Costa Rican families. This trip is not just about what we do, but who we meet — and the lifelong relationships that come from living and serving together.

“One of the most powerful parts is seeing those long-term relationships. We’ve watched students grow up, families expand, and faith deepen over the years — and we get to be part of that ongoing story.”
 — Pastor Joseph Furno 

Why We’re Going 

We believe missions aren’t just about traveling far away — they’re about living out the Great Commission wherever God sends us.
This trip gives our students and church members a chance to:
Live out their faith by serving others in practical, tangible ways.

  • Experience discipleship in action, growing spiritually as they serve.
  • Build long-term relationships that continue beyond the trip.
  • See the gospel through a global lens, realizing that ministry doesn’t stop when they return home.

Pastor Joseph shared that one of his favorite moments came when a student said,

“I don’t feel like we did anything special or different than what we do at home.”

That’s exactly the goal — to show that being on mission for Jesus is something we can do here, there, and everywhere 

FAQ's

Anyone 14 years or older by June 30, 2026 is welcome to apply!

This is primarily a student ministry trip, so high school students have first priority, but college students and adults are encouraged to apply if space allows (up to 18 participants total).
We’re looking for people who are actively pursuing Jesus — not perfection, just a heart willing to serve. 

July 4–12, 2026
 (Include an extra day on each end for possible travel delays.) 

Where Are We Serving?
The trip takes place in Heredia, Costa Rica, in partnership with Students International — an organization with deep local roots and a year-round ministry presence. Learn more at stint.com

The estimated cost is $2,250–$2,500 (final cost pending airline tickets).
 This covers lodging, meals in Costa Rica, transportation, and ministry expenses.
Additional costs:
Passport — $130

Recommended vaccines — varies by insurance

Food on travel days — ~$50

Spending money — ~$100 

We believe fundraising is part of the mission — it lets others participate in sending you!
Parents pay a $150 deposit, and students contribute $150 of their own through work, allowance, or odd jobs.

The rest of the cost is raised through support letters, fundraisers, and service projects.

Families will never be asked to pay more than $300 out of pocket

 

Yes. While no trip is entirely risk-free, Students International takes extensive precautions:
Work in safe, low-crime communities.

  • Local staff monitor U.S. State Department updates.
  • Orientation and safety briefings for all team members.
  • Access to quality local hospitals and medical professionals.

 We truly believe that the safest place to be is in the center of God’s will 

Parents play a vital role in supporting their students’ journey:
Attend the Parent Meetings — January 18 & June 7, 2026.

Help with passports, vaccinations, and fundraising.

Encourage spiritual preparation and prayer throughout the process. 

Apply by January 14, 2026.

Turn in your $150 deposit with your application.

Accepted applicants will be notified by January 16, 2026.

Complete your Students International online application to finalize your spot. 

Have more questions?

We're here to help!

Join our Christmas Choir!
Starts Nov. 30. No experience is required—just a heart for music and a desire to celebrate the season together.
Read more