Frequently Asked Questions about our One-week Workteam Missions Trip

We imagine you have questions about going on a one-week workteam missions trip with us. Well, we’ve got some answers. If you don’t see what you’re looking for below, just send us an email or give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you.

Who can go?
Almost everyone. Men and women, young (accompanied by a parent/guardian) and old. If you have health concerns, just remember to check with your doctor before signing on. Come join us!

Do I need to be skilled in construction?
Not necessary. We’re thankful for all our volunteers, from electricians, carpenters, and masons to “I’ve-never-been-near-a-worksite.”  In fact, about 95% of our volunteers have no prior construction skills. We have leaders on-site who will step you through the learning process.

Where will I go?
You’re headed to our residential school/hub in Rio Bravo, Tamaulipas, Mexico.

How do I get there?
Pretty much any way you want to travel. Most people fly, but some drive and some charter a bus. It’s entirely up to you. Once you get to the airport, we’ll take care of your transportation for the rest of the week.

What will I do on a workteam?
There are a variety of roles to be filled, all geared toward building a residential school campus. We try to find jobs that most anyone can do within the limitations God has given us. Some will paint, some will clean, some will restock school supplies, some will weld, some will lay cement block, some will plumb … the list goes on. We also encourage you to spend time with deaf children during the school year. It's the perfect opportunity to meet your sponsored child!

Do I need to know Spanish? Sign Language?
While these skills are very beneficial, they are not at all necessary. When you need to speak in Spanish or Sign Language, we’ll have interpreters available. Most workteam members speak only English.

Who will take care of me while I’m there?
Our Workteam Coordinator and our Campus Coordinator will take excellent care of you. Even if you forget to pack something, we’ll try to make it available to you.

What will I eat? 
We cook a combination of Mexican and American food. And don’t worry - if you have food allergies, we’ll work with you to keep you safe and fed.

Is the water safe?
On our campus, it’s absolutely safe. In fact, there’s a good chance it’s cleaner than your water at home! Because your safety is important to us, our water on campus is reverse osmosis filtered, carbon filtered, and silica filtered. And then, just to be sure, it’s injected with chlorine.  We highly recommend that you not drink the water when you’re off our campus (i.e. at church, out shopping or touring, etc).

Do I need a passport and visa?
Passport – yes; visa – no.

Do I get to see any of Mexico while I’m there?
You certainly do. We usually tour a local town, and, if you like, we’ll take you shopping in Progresso. Then on Sunday, you’ll worship in Mexican church.

Who will lead my workteam?
Usually, our volunteers go with groups put together and led by someone from their local church. However, individuals or small groups who want to go but who don’t have a team can join an ICCD team.

What do I do to get my own group together?
Give us a call (540-966-3345) or send us an email, and we’ll step you through it. (Ask for Tom or Debbie Turner.)

What do I need to do to book a work team?
Call Tom or Debbie Turner at (540) 966-3345 or send us an email.

How much does it cost?
It’s $565, which covers your transportation once you’re in Mexico, your food, the construction materials you’ll use, and your travel insurance premium. It also helps to further us in fulfilling ICCD’s vision of reaching the deaf all around the world. (If you’re going on an “ICCD team,” the cost is just slightly more. An “ICCD team” is one that is led by our staff rather than by someone from your church.)  

Did other people like going?
They surely did. Read what they had to say.