2026 Sierra Service Project: Building Hope, Connecting Generations
For decades, First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica (FUMC) has answered the call to serve communities across the country. We are excited to announce our next initiative: a week-long intergenerational service trip from August 1-8, 2026.
We are partnering with the Sierra Service Project (SSP), sending a dedicated work team to the Teec Nos Pos Chapter of the Navajo Nation in Arizona. SSP is a trusted partner working with local communities to provide essential home repairs.
This year is special as we participate in SSP’s intergenerational program, creating an opportunity for all ages in our church family to serve side-by-side, sharing faith and building community.
Our team will concentrate on high-impact projects that directly improve quality of life and safety for community members. Your contribution directly supports materials for these vital repairs:
- Safety & Maintenance: Erecting sheds for storing heating wood and performing general, critical home maintenance tasks.
- Accessibility: Construction of accessibility ramps and stairs.
- Weather Protection: Building protective porches and awnings for snow and weather protection.
Help Us Reach Our Goal: $20,000
Join Us for the Sierra Service Project (SSP) Carnival & Fundraiser!
Our SSP team is gearing up for an intergenerational service trip to the Teec Nos Pos Chapter of the Navajo Nation this August, and we invite our church family and friends to be a part of the journey. Please join us on Sunday, July 26 for a special day of support and community.
We will begin with a Commissioning blessing during the 10 a.m. worship service, followed by our SSP Fundraiser and Lunch at 11:15 a.m.
This year, we are hosting a “Service Trip Carnival” to give you a firsthand look at the work our team will be doing. Stop by our interactive booths to try your hand at skills like hammering nails or setting up campsite gear, and learn more about the Navajo Nation and the impactful home repair projects we’ll be undertaking. We look forward to seeing you there for a delicious lunch and an opportunity to support this vital ministry!
Our team goal is to raise $20,000 to cover work supplies, travel cost, and food expenses for our team of 17 people.
Each volunteer has personally contributed $300 towards their cost. Your tax-deductible contribution is a direct investment in the hands-on work we will do, helping us purchase specific materials like lumber for a ramp, materials for a shed, or fuel to get our team to the work site.
How to Support the 2026 Team
1. Donate Online (Fastest Way to Give)
- To support the entire team: Leave the comments field blank.
- To support a specific volunteer: Write the volunteer’s name in the Comments field to ensure credit.
2. Send a Tax-Deductible Contribution by Mail
- Payable to: First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica (or FUMC)
- Address: 1008 11th St., Santa Monica, CA 90403
- Memo Line: Please write SSP 2026 Team – add the volunteer’s name to ensure credit
3. Support with Prayers and Presence
Keep our team in your thoughts and prayers for safe travels and impactful service.
You are invited to join us for our Commissioning in Worship and Fundraiser Luncheon on Sunday, July 26, at 10:00 a.m. at Santa Monica FUMC. All are invited!
We are deeply grateful for your partnership in making this mission of hope a reality!