Participant Information

Helping You Prepare for SOAR

Mentorship SOAR

This is a long journey of discipleship and it takes community to come around each SOAR participant to walk them through their experience and seek God’s call alongside them. Here is a mentorship covenant we encourage each participant coming on SOAR to find a mentor and meet with them both leading up to SOAR and after.

Mentor Info:

You will greatly appreciate having a mentor to help you through the various stages of SOAR. The following information about roles and qualifications will help you in choosing a mentor. You should get going on this as soon as possible.

What is a mentor

One of the high school leaders at a church met with the church’s elder board, sharing that the young men in the youth group were looking for mentors. After his excellent presentation, one of the older men on the board replied, “But we’re not qualified. We don’t know how to mentor.” The young man responded, “Just take us to a ball game, pray with us, ask us if we’ve been in the Word. Be there for us if we need you, do things with us that you normally do. Ask us to help you around your house. Your life is already a teacher to us. Just be yourself. That is the kind of mentor we are looking for.” In other words, it is not necessary for mentors to be Bible scholars, teachers, or even leaders. They just need to live their lives in the presence of someone else and be willing to work at that relationship. Everybody can be a mentor as long as they have learned from God and are willing to share with others what God is teaching them.

Why have a mentor

Christians of all ages, committed to following Jesus, benefit from having a mentor willing to accompany them on their spiritual journey. They look for more mature people who are practically living out their Christian lives. They look for people ready to commit to love and pray for them.

Everyone needs accountability, someone to listen to them, someone to encourage and challenge them. A mentor can come alongside personally and walk through the transition from life before a short-term mission to a continually changing life after the program.

How do you choose a mentor

You should seek out someone you respect, who you want to spend time with, and who is willing to spend time with you. This person should be the same gender as you. They should be an adult committed/engaged in your local church, and with whom you feel comfortable. Spend time in prayer and ask God who should be your mentor and meet with this person.

A person of love
A person that listens (compassion, availability, discernment, wisdom)
A person of prayer
A person of integrity (if they say they will pray, they mean it)
A faithful servant in the church
A person who will commit to at least two months of mentoring before/after your mission

What are the roles and responsibilities of a mentor

You received the «Mentor Guide» by email. Give it/forward it to your mentor. It contains instructions and ideas so that you, the mentee, can benefit most from this missionary experience. Remember, at the heart of mentoring is friendship, accountability, and encouragement. So, make sure that you and your mentor have a great time whatever you choose to do!

Packing Information for SOAR

Being prepared without overpacking - because, let’s be honest, hauling a giant suitcase around isn’t fun for anyone.

This guide will help you pack smart. We’ve broken it into two sections:
Group List – What the whole team needs to bring and know
Individual List – What you need to pack personally

SOAR is about being fully present—so come ready, stay flexible, and pack with purpose.

GROUP List

Packing Guidelines

Pack light! Each person should have only:

One piece of luggage
A sleeping bag & pillow
A small personal bag
Clothing for 7 days – There will be limited laundry time.

Bulky suitcases are discouraged – Storage space is tight.

Clothing Guidelines

Modesty matters. You’re in a ministry setting, and how you present yourself speaks volumes. Talk as a team about what’s appropriate. Winnipeg weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for cold, snow, and wet conditions. Bring:

A warm coat, hat, mitts, scarf, and boots
Extra socks and shoes (wet feet = not fun)
Rubber boots may be helpful depending on the forecast.

Personal Electronics

Leaders, bring your cell phones for coordination.
Participants should limit cell phone use to stay engaged.

Spending Money

Your program fee covers food and most expenses.
You’re responsible for transportation costs.
Bring a little extra cash for snacks or personal purchases.

Photos & Media

Some ministry settings have photo restrictions—always check with your ministry host before taking pictures.
Some kids you’ll work with have privacy protections, so be mindful of what can be shared.

Medications & Health

Prescription meds must be in original bottles with labels.
Let your leader know if you take medications regularly.
Over-the-counter meds (for allergies, bug bites, etc.) can be brought as needed.

There won’t always be a nurse on-site, so come prepared.

Security & Belongings

You’re responsible for keeping your personal items (phones, wallets, electronics) secure.
Multiply is not responsible for lost or stolen belongings.

Team Packing List

Copies of each team member’s ID (Multiply will provide medical/emergency contact copies).
Copies of medical prescriptions.
Ministry materials & supplies.
Coolers for lunches (enough for your team and those you serve).
Optional: Check with your ministry host about donated resources.
Extra Bibles or giveaways
Winter gear (hats, mitts, etc.) to give away (if applicable)

Individual List
Essentials

ID/Passport (if applicable).
Personal medication in original bottles.
Bible, journal, pen.
Sleeping bag, pillow, and small mattress.
Day pack for daily use.

Toiletries & Hygiene

Soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, towel.
Sandals for showers.
Bathing suit (if needed for your ministry setting).

Hydration & Snacks

Reusable water bottle.
A few personal snacks (optional but helpful).

Clothing for 7 Days

Layered clothing for changing weather.
Hat, mitts, boots, and warm coat.
Extra socks (cold + wet feet are no fun).

Extra Spending Money

For snacks, small purchases, or unexpected needs.

Pack wisely, stay flexible, and be ready for whatever comes your way. See you soon!