Youth Service Project (YSP)
Each summer, a team of youth and adult volunteers from First UMC Santa Monica take time out of their summer vacations to go on a week-long service trip. During the trip, youth learn about themselves and build relationships with people from all over the U.S., they learn teamwork and how to use power tools, and they are given the opportunity to help people to gain a safe, warm, and dry home to live in through their work. This service leadership opportunity helps youth to grow in their faith through serving others. We collaborate with reputable youth-centered service organizations, and while the location of the trips varies each year, the purpose remains the same: Be in community and of service to those in need.
Sizzle and Service Bash – YSP Fundraiser
Fire up your summer spirit and join us for the Sizzle & Service Bash! The Youth Service Project Team is taking over the Church Courtyard for a classic BBQ—think sizzling burgers and hot dogs (+veggie options), all the fixin’s, and some homemade desserts to top it off. Grab a lemonade and enjoy summer yard games with your friends while the kids jump for joy in the bounce house. Every ticket supports our youth group’s summer service trip to Johnson County, TN, where we will repair homes in Central Appalachia, helping to make them warmer, safer, and drier for families and elderly residents in need.
Tickets: $30 for adults / $15 for kids / $75 for a family
FUMC Preschool Family Discount – $50/family
Sunday, June 14, after worship in the Courtyard
Youth Service Project 2026 Trip
Where: Appalachia Service Project – Johnson County, TN.
Who: Youth currently in 6th-12th grades
When: Saturday June 20 – Sunday June 28
What: We will be working on homes for people with limited financial resources in the Appalachian Mountains area.
Why: Jesus tells us that we are called to love others and to be a light for the world, through our service work we spread hope, love and embody God’s grace.
Contact Tricia to for more information.
Past Youth Service Projects:
2022 Youth Service Project – Epworth Project, New Orleans
Youth Service Project – Radio Feature
While the youth were on their trip in 2019, the local Smith River Community Radio station did a feature about the service project, and First UMC Youth Emily Plukas was part of the group that was interviewed. Listen Here