Given the nature of what we do, we are asked many questions.  This is great as we want people to be informed as to the “who, what, when, where, and whys” of Hope on the Move.  With this, we thought it would be helpful to note a list of FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ).  The topics range from how often we do what we do, what we do, to who goes, and more.  If you do not see your question answered here, please direct any and all questions to us through the Contact Us tab at the top of this page.

How many trips per year will there be?

This is variable, but our plans are to oversee approximately 3-4 trips pear year.  The variability comes from our desire to be “at the ready” and respond to a given crisis; so one never really knows.

How many people form a team when you travel?

Here too, the answer is one of “it varies”.  Our smallest teams in the past approximate one dozen, our largest approach four dozen, with two dozen being an average size.  Many factors go into this, including the trips location, purpose, cost, transportation & housing limits, interest, and more.

Since Hope on the Move has its roots in a church ministry, does one need to be part of a particular religious group in order to participate on a trip?

No! Hope on the Move is open to participation from people of any and all spiritual persuasions…or none at all.  Providing hope is not tied to those with a certain set of religious beliefs.  We were told to “love one another” and, with that…special things happen. That said, anyone considering participation in a Hope on the Move effort should know that our trips will, without question or apology, involve activities that are common to Christian practices (e.g., prayer, singing, Bible reading). 

What is the purpose of your trips?

To be very transparent, our thoughts on this have changed dramatically over the years.  In the early days of our efforts, we considered taking “things” (e.g., clothes, shoes, etc.) to be a major component of any trip.  In short, we could never, ever, bring enough things to satisfy a void to any meaningful or lasting degree. A couple of years ago, we heard of a novel plan to help solve some of the biggest problems in the world (i.e., the PEACE plan). In one sentence, the PEACE plan is about equipping those in need by training them, following a period of education and equipping, to help themselves.

If I am not a medical professional, experienced in construction, or have a background in agriculture is there a role on a traveling team for me?

Yes!  While it is true, it is hard to perform medical and dental trips…without medical or dental professionals; our activities to help others are diverse.  As you will see, we have efforts in construction, agriculture, nutrition, information technologies, teaching…what we are looking for is people who want to help others.

Are youth ever allowed to come?

Yes, but with certain limitations. We desire to provide a safe and secure environment for youth. Many emotional & physical challenges exist when traveling to the third world countries.  Therefore, we believe it wise to oversee youth enrollment carefully.  Normally, those under 18 are not allowed to attend without an accompanying parent.  Each situation is, however, different and we are happy to discuss each potential case on a one-on-one basis.

What is the purpose of an application?

Our hearts desire is that everyone who wants to go with us on a mission’s trip could go and we will do our best to see that this occurs. However, there are natural limitations (e.g., financial, transportation, housing, etc.) that unfortunately, will not make this possible. This, combined with the dual mission of having a medical, construction, dental mission, render a situation wherein a selection process will be necessary.

When are the trip applications due?

Deadlines are posted for each trip, on the Travel page within this site.

To whom and where should my application be sent to?

Applications can be:

1. Sent by mail to:


      Carol Atkinson, c/o

      Hope on the Move

         7456 SW 116th Terrace

      Gainesville, FL 32608

3. Emailed to Carol at: carol@hopeonthemove.org

How much do the trips cost?

Each trip has its own posted cost.  Also, the total cost will be influenced by whether or not one has a passport and what immunizations they obtain. Beyond this, you may want to bring a limited amount of money to buy souvenirs while in the country, as well as meals on the way to and from the site.  These costs have not been factored into the financial estimates on the travel page; however, they are minimal.

What if I change my mind at the last minute and I decide not to go?

As the airline tickets we purchase will be discounted to be most affordable, they also will be non-refundable. While those monies cannot be returned, we commit to try to obtain refunds to canceled travelers to the best degree possible.

Is the water safe to drink?

The answer is "yes" if referring to bottled water (seal intact) and that provided at the various compounds (which has been purified). "No" is the correct answer to water from any other source. More information on food safety will be provided in a training session prior to the trip.

What type of food will we be eating?

The best food in the world :); often, representing local fare.  When you work as hard as you will, and…seeing how little those around you often have, it is simply the best.  In situations where food is in short supply, we transport with us, food for the entire trip. 

What type of housing will we be staying in?

The housing we stay in is not luxurious by most U.S. standards, but far better than is typical for the areas we stay in.  Over the years, the best analogy we often think of is one of “summer camp” for children and youth (e.g., bunk beds, no air conditioning, shared bathrooms, etc.)

What vaccinations do I need?

We believe the best policies follow those of the CDC.  We would refer you to that site and recommend you follow those guidelines for the country in question.  At the same time, we do have on the forms page, specific documentation regarding immunizations.

Do I need a passport?

Yes. However, a visa is not typically required for most of the countries we visit. (for U.S. Citizens). A description of the processes surrounding the passport system as well as the agencies address is provided in our first training session. However, one word of advice.  APPLY EARLY if you think you may be traveling.  There is no reason to wait and, the Passports are good for many years.

How much luggage will I be allowed to bring?

Each of the airlines differ in this requirement and as such, prior to each trip, we make a specific announcement on the limits for each trip.  Most often, airlines allow for one SMALL carry-on plus one check-in bag. There is, however, a catch.  Our strategy has in the past been for the traveler to pack one bag for themselves (the carry-on) and part of one of the check-in bags.  Our mission team will then use part of the check in bag, and perhaps, purchase a second bag to pack and deliver medical and travel related supplies. More information regarding this issue will be given at the training sessions. 

Will we be collecting supplies to take and distribute on the trip?

No….to a point.  We discuss this in our training; meaning, why we do not make this an emphasis area. 

Can I be contacted while I am on these trips?

Historically, this has not been an issue; the answer was “no”. Times are, however, changing with the use of cell phones and internet, this notion is changing rapidly.  With this, the answer is yes, but please, know it is expensive and do not make it a distraction to yourself or the other team members.  The rationale for this will be discussed in our training sessions.

What type of clothes will I need to bring?

We will provide a recommended packing list for each trip.  Samples are noted on the Forms Tab on this site.

Will the trip be physically exhausting?

The answer is a strong and emphatic "yes". From the onset of the trip, the stress of driving to the airport, usually following a night of questionable sleep will probably cause some a level of discomfort. However, one must add to that the effects of the airline trip, traveling in the back of trucks, the emotional toll of seeing a change in diet, and the limitations in physical amenities (e.g., no air conditioning). In addition, depending on the team assignment, hiking for two miles up a mountainside may not be out of the question. Depending on the assignment, days could consist of standing on ones feet for times in excess of 10-12 hours. Hence, those who have medical conditions that could be influenced by these extreme conditions are STRONGLY advised to consult with their physician prior to travel. Indeed, one of the lessons we learned on previous trips was to begin preparing (weeks before the trip) by eating smaller meal portions, exercising more than usual (especially walking), or whatever preparations are required to build your own endurance and ability to perform strenuous activities.

Will my activities on these trips be on a “9 to 5” schedule?

With as much emphasis as can be given, the answer to this question is “no”.  Another major lesson learned from previous trips to third world countries was the need to participate as a team around the clock.  This can mean many things ranging from giving up personal “down time” in the evenings, having to carry supplies, performing tasks you may have not considered, to missing meals.  Participation in this trip represents a commitment to participate at this level of activity, be flexible, and have a willingness to submit to authority when directed to perform such functions.  Put another way, these efforts are not vacations.  That said, for most, they are amongst the most rewarding trips one can ever take.

Are there any meetings to help prepare us for this trip?

Yes.  We normally have several group meetings for those traveling in order to aid in personal preparations. The first meeting will be spent almost entirely addressing the question of "what will we be doing".  We will also use this first meeting to explain the “team” platform for our missions trip. All team members will undergo a “self-test” to make sure essential items that require early address (e.g., passports, immunizations, etc.) have been addressed. The second meeting will include the topics of "how do I pack", "what do I need to do to be safe (includes an immunization discussion)", “how do I prepare myself for this trip”, and “the basics of local culture”. Note, our goal with time is to record these sessions and have them posted on our website under the Training Videos section.

What if I have additional questions, who should I contact?

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Mark or Carol Atkinson, by e-mail. The e-mail address for inquiries is: carol@hopeonthemove.org