International Training Center: Volunteers Needed

By Mark Nelson

The new Intercultural Training program is already underway under the leadership of ABWE missionary Bob Dyer. The purpose of this program is to provide basic practical training for pre-field appointees, and continuing education for veteran missionaries, enabling them to be more effective in their ministries.

Some courses will be conducted in the countries where ABWE serves; others will be held at the ABWE Headquarters and Training Center in Harrisburg. Facilities to accommodate these programs are needed so we are adding 25,000 square feet to the existing building.

Dave Purrington will be the construction superintendent. He brings to the project 30 years of building experience in the USA, and overseeing ABWE building projects in Japan and Portugal. Those who worked on ABWE's first construction project in Harrisburg will be pleased to know Dave still wears his red hat!

We hope to start construction in April 1999. The preliminary schedule calls for 40 volunteers every week. If YOU want to be a part of this project, contact Chloe Mitchell (717) 774-4400 Ext. 387 or email chloe@abwe.org with the dates you are available. We are especially interested in those who can help get the project going. This involves utility relocation, excavation, laying foundation block, sewer line installation, pouring slab on grade. Another immediate need is for someone to head up the kitchen work: planning meals and snacks, purchasing food, cooking, and cleaning. Volunteers to assist in the kitchen will be needed as soon as the project begins.

As the project continues, we will need bricklayers, HVAC, plumbing and electrical supervisors, and carpet installers. There will also be plenty of work for framing and finish carpenters, roofers, drywall installers, drop ceiling installers, painters, and all sorts of general laborers.

The housing and meal arrangements are similar to those for construction of the current headquarters. We are seeking quotes from local motels, and for those coming long-term, we will attempt to find other housing. Lunch and dinner, including snacks, will be available at a minimal cost. Each volunteer will be responsible for his/her own breakfast and motel fees.

Anyone who desires to participate by donating building materials or design expertise should call Mark Nelson (717) 774-4400 Ext. 388 or email markn@abwe.org. Cash gifts for the project may be designated to "International Training Center Construction."

We look forward to seeing many of you in Harrisburg. More importantly, we look forward to see how God will use this facility to provide training for His servants, and ultimately bring people to the Lord.

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