Be part of a summer mission
changing the way orphan care
is done around the world.
JUNE 14 - JULY 12, 2026
WHAT IS ROOTED?
A 4-week, immersive summer mission in Chapala, Mexico where college-age participants come to learn, serve and grow as Rooted Missionaries.
Serve alongside local children’s homes, learn about sustainable ministry, and partner with Oak Life as we change how orphanages care for kids.
This is more than a trip — it’s an invitation to be rooted in something that transforms lives, including your own.
MISSED THE DEADLINE?
Applications for summer 2026 are now closed.
But if you share our heart for children, then come be a part of our team in 2027! Sign up to get instantly notified when applications open.
WHAT WILL YOU DO?
Help Oak Life change the landscape of global orphan care.
We're looking for participants who can provide support in any of the following areas:
Children’s care and ministry
Media, photography, and storytelling
Campus Projects, Construction, and Maintenance
Hospitality and meal preparation
Administrative or organizational tasks
WHAT ARE THE DETAILS?
Fee for residential room & board during the 4-week internship is $1,250USD.
We take care of the rest.
The program begins June 14th and ends July 12, 2026.
Qualifying participants should be between the ages of 18-24.
1
LEARN
- Trauma-informed care overview (TBRI principles, attachment, etc.)
- Introduction to orphan care globally & locally
- Spanish basics for daily life and ministry
- Biblical foundations of missions + justice
- Sustainable nonprofit work and what it really takes
2
SERVE
- Weekly service at partnering orphanages
- Assist with Oak Life programs and activities
- Gardening projects, crafts, meal prep, etc.
- Assist mission trip management (learning behind the scenes)
- “Serve with, not for” mindset
3
GROW
- Personal spiritual formation
- Journaling prompts + reflection sessions
- Group debriefs and mentoring
- Sabbath practices, community meals, and church engagement
- Learning how to carry what you learn into the next step in life
FAQS
What is the age range for this program?
The ROOTED summer mission program is designed for college-age students, 18-24.
Is Chapala, Mexico safe?
Yes, Chapala is safe! This is a vibrant, multi-cultural, multi-lingual city with residents from all over Mexico, United States, Canada and Europe. Chapala does not see the same types or levels of crime that other parts of the country do.
It’s important to note, though, that the Oak Life team monitors local safety carefully. If at any point there are indicators of unusual threats, a rise in race-based crimes, civil unrest, etc., then we will take mitigating action to ensure everyone’s safety, even if that means cancelling an upcoming trip.
How much will it cost to live in Chapala?
Oak Life works to simplify this for you. During your internship, you’ll live on our campus where we take care of everything you need.
Our resident fee for 4 weeks is $1,250USD
Fees include:
- Housing and meals
- Transportation, including airport pick-up/drop-off
- Cultural excursions
What types of activities will I be involved in?
Rooted Missionaries might help with children’s programs, assist visiting mission teams, create media content, prepare meals, organize supplies, or work on small construction and garden projects. There will also be moments of reflection, worship, and fellowship!
Do I need to speak Spanish?
Not at all. Many of our team members and local partners are bilingual, and we provide plenty of support to help you navigate cultural and language differences.
Got Questions?
Send Kelsey a message!
