Arequipa, Peru
AAC Mission

The primary focus of our clinical work is to evaluate, equip, and empower individuals with significant communication needs through the use of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) technology — while also building sustainable local support. Our clinical efforts will include: Conducting personalized AAC evaluations using Forbes AAC devices (such as the ProSlate, WinSlate devices) Matching each patient with an appropriate device, based on videos and evaluations submitted in advance Gifting the AAC device directly to the patient, free of charge, as a long-term communication solution Customizing and setting up each device to meet the individual’s access needs and language level Training local therapists (SLPs, OTs, PTs) to support and maintain AAC use after we return Educating families and caregivers on how to support consistent communication at home We expect to serve approximately 8 individuals per day, with both complex and straightforward needs. This clinical work is done in partnership with local clinicians, and is always combined with a spirit of compassion, prayer, and gospel-centered encouragement.

Yes! We will be working closely with local Peruvian SLPs, OTs, and PTs thru Medical Ministries International. Medical Ministry International (MMI) is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to serving Jesus Christ by providing spiritual and compassionate health care to communities in need around the world . Mission and Approach MMI's mission is to offer opportunities to serve Jesus Christ through the provision of spiritual and compassionate health care. They focus on: Establishing and supporting health care centers in developing countries to increase access to affordable, quality health care. Facilitating short-term project teams (1–2 weeks) that work alongside in-country project directors and facilities to build long-term medical capacity. Supporting residency training and fellowship programs for medical professionals to expand the skills of international doctors . Global Reach MMI operates in numerous countries, including Peru, where they have been active since 2010. In Peru, MMI collaborates with local churches, municipalities, and the Ministry of Health to implement medical project teams providing services in general medicine, dental, physical therapy, surgery, and ophthalmology. These projects often include a training component for local medical personnel and are designed to be sustainable through partnerships with local entities . Partnership with Voice of Grace Ministries MMI is a key partner in our mission efforts, providing logistical support, local partnerships, and clinical infrastructure. Their collaboration ensures that our team can effectively serve communities in Peru with both medical care and the message of Jesus Christ. For more information about MMI and their global initiatives, visit their website at www.mmi.org.

Yes! We will host 2–4 virtual training sessions in July to prepare team members for device usage, cultural expectations, and ministry involvement. All AAC devices will be pre-assigned based on clinical assessments done in advance.

In addition to providing AAC evaluations and training, we will: Participate in community ministry (food distribution, Bible giveaways, and prayer) Attend a local church service, where inspirational testimonies will be shared Join in baptism celebrations and healing prayer gatherings as the Holy Spirit leads

Who can apply to join the mission team? We are primarily seeking Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) with AAC experience, but we also welcome applications from other professionals who have experience working with children with complex communication needs or speech disorders — including OTs, PTs, special educators, and assistive technology specialists. The most important qualifications are: Experience supporting individuals with speech or communication challenges A servant’s heart and a desire to share the love and gospel of Jesus Christ If you meet these criteria and feel called to serve, we encourage you to apply. We will consider all applicants based on team needs, clinical skills, and ministry readiness.

You can support the mission by: Sponsoring an AAC device or a team member Giving toward food, Bibles, and ministry supplies Praying for the families, clinicians, and local partners Every gift makes a lasting impact — and all donations are tax-deductible.

Our goal is to serve 45 individuals and families with custom-assigned AAC devices and hands-on therapy support. We will also train local clinicians to continue care after we return.

Arequipa sits at 7,600 feet elevation, so mild altitude symptoms are possible. The weather in August is typically cool and dry, with highs in the 60s°F (15–20°C) and cooler nights.

1. What currency is used in Peru? Peru uses the Peruvian Sol (PEN). U.S. dollars are not widely accepted, so you’ll need to convert some cash to Soles either before you go or upon arrival. 2. How much cash should I bring? While most major expenses (lodging, transportation, meals) are covered, we recommend bringing around $100–$200 in cash, converted to Soles, for personal purchases like: Snacks or bottled water Souvenirs or local goods Tips for hotel staff or drivers Church offerings or spontaneous giving Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. 3. Should I bring a debit or credit card? Yes. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Peru, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. Just be sure to: Notify your bank of international travel to avoid fraud alerts Bring a card with no foreign transaction fees if possible Keep your card in a secure place and monitor charges regularly 4. Can I use ATMs in Peru? Yes, ATMs are available in Arequipa and often offer the best exchange rates. Be sure to: Use ATMs in well-lit, secure areas, such as inside banks or malls Withdraw only what you need and store the cash safely Avoid withdrawing large sums at once 5. Should I exchange money in the U.S. or in Peru? You can exchange currency in either location, but you may get a better rate in Peru. Options include: ATMs (preferred) Currency exchange booths at the Lima or Arequipa airports Local banks or exchange houses ("cambios") in the city Avoid airport exchanges in the U.S. — they tend to offer poor rates. 6. Are there any spending restrictions or limitations? Yes. Peruvian law limits cash payments over PEN 2,000 (approx. $500 USD). For any larger personal purchases, a credit card or debit card is recommended. 7. Will I need money for ministry or clinical supplies? No. All ministry-related materials, devices, and clinical supplies are covered through trip fundraising and sponsorships. You’re only responsible for personal expenses.

No — Spanish is not required, though it’s helpful. We will have interpreters on-site throughout the week to assist with communication during evaluations and ministry activities.

The trip will take place August 2–9, 2025. Travel to Lima and Arequipa will be on August 2, with clinical and ministry work running from August 4–8. Return travel will be on August 9. Saturday, Aug 2 – Travel Day Fly to Lima, then Arequipa, Peru Sunday, Aug 3 – Church & Rest Attend local church Clayton shares testimony Team devotion and sightseeing Monday, Aug 4 – Patient Evaluations Begin Morning: 2-hour sessions (complex cases) Afternoon: 1-hour sessions (simpler needs) Goal: 8 patients served/day Evening: Team dinner and debrief Tuesday–Thursday, Aug 5–7 – AAC Therapy & Training Morning & afternoon patient sessions Team members train local therapists Virtual prep done in July enables continuity Wednesday Evening, Aug 6 – Community Ministry Prayer outreach Bible giveaways Food basket distributions Gospel message shared with families Friday, Aug 8 – Final Patient Day + Wrap-Up Continue evaluations and training Final group reflection & farewell dinner Saturday, Aug 9 – Return Travel

Each day follows a rhythm of clinical work, fellowship, and reflection: 6:30 AM – Breakfast & Devotional 8:00 AM–1:00 PM – Morning AAC evaluations (2-hour sessions) 1:00 PM – Group lunch 2:00 PM–4:30 PM – Afternoon evaluations (1-hour sessions) 6:30 PM – Dinner and evening debrief

The estimated total cost to participate in the Peru Mission Trip is approximately $2,470–$2,970, depending on airfare. This includes: $1,370 – Ground transportation, lodging, meals, and ministry materials in Arequipa $100 – Non-refundable application fee $1,000–$1,500 – Estimated round-trip airfare (varies by departure city) How the Matching Program Works Voice of Grace Ministries has set aside $10,000 in total to help missionaries fund their trip through a matching program. However, The ministry will dollar-for-dollar cover the difference between your combined fundraising and personal contribution, and the total cost of your trip (up to the maximum allowable). Example: You contribute $750 You raise $750 from supporters Your total raised/contributed = $1,500 If your trip cost is $3000, Voice of Grace will match the remaining $1500 Your trip is fully covered, and your out-of-pocket cost remains just $750 Matching Guidelines: The match is limited to the remaining balance needed to cover your total trip cost Matching applies only to verified funds raised and contributed through Voice of Grace Ministries The match will not exceed your actual trip cost, which includes airfare, in-country expenses, and application fee All donations are tax-deductible (EIN: 82-2195772), and donors will receive a receipt

Yes. The Voice of Grace matching program is designed to help cover the remaining balance of your trip cost — after you combine your personal contribution and fundraising. It’s not a 1:1 match on total funds raised, but rather a match up to the remaining cost of your trip. Here are some examples to clarify: Example 1: You raise $1,000 and contribute $1,000 Total raised + contributed: $2,000 Estimated trip cost: $2,470 Voice of Grace match: $470 Total available: $2,470 (trip is fully covered) Your out-of-pocket cost: $1,000 Example 2: You raise the full amount through supporters You raise: $2,500 You contribute: $0 Estimated trip cost: $2,470 Voice of Grace match: $0 (because your fundraising already covers the full cost) Excess funds may be applied toward lost wages (if approved and within limits) Example 3: You contribute personally, no outside fundraising You contribute: $2,000 You raise: $0 Estimated trip cost: $2,470 Voice of Grace match: $470 Total available: $2,470 Your out-of-pocket cost: $2,000 Example 4: You raise and contribute more than the trip cost You raise: $1,600 You contribute: $1,400 Total: $3,000 Estimated trip cost: $2,470 Voice of Grace match: $0 (trip already covered) Excess $530 may be considered toward lost wages, if approved Important Notes: Voice of Grace will match only the amount needed to reach your total trip cost (estimated at $2,470–$2,970, including airfare) The matching cap per person is the remaining balance after your own contributions and fundraising All funds must be processed through Voice of Grace Ministries to qualify Donations are 100% tax-deductible (EIN: 82-2195772)

To ensure consistency and simplify coordination, Voice of Grace Ministries will book all airfare on behalf of mission participants. Instead of purchasing your own ticket, you should contribute the estimated airfare amount to Voice of Grace, along with your other trip costs. This allows us to: Ensure all flights align with the group’s travel schedule Coordinate airport transfers and logistics more efficiently Avoid errors or mismatches in booking Maintain accurate records for tax-deductible donations Apply your fundraising and matching funds toward your full trip cost, including airfare Note: Booking your ticket independently would make it ineligible for the matching program and may create tax compliance issues

Donors can make a tax-deductible gift directly to Voice of Grace Ministries, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. To ensure your gift is credited properly, please have donors include your name in the memo line or comments. We accept: Online donations at https://www.voiceofgrace.net/give Checks, payable to Voice of Grace Ministries Mail to: Voice of Grace Ministries 181 Illinois Ave. South Mansfield, OH 44905

Yes. Voice of Grace Ministries is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All donations are 100% tax-deductible as allowed by law. 🆔 EIN: 82-2195772

Raising support for your mission trip can be a powerful part of the journey — allowing others to be part of what God is doing through you. Here are some proven strategies: 1. Share Your Story Personally Write a heartfelt support letter or email explaining the mission, your role, and how others can be involved. Be sure to include why this trip matters to you, and how supporters can pray and give. Attach or include the PDF info sheet with QR code that links directly to our donation page. 2. Use Social Media Creatively Post updates, photos, and short videos about your preparations Share what you're learning spiritually and what you’re excited to do Include the QR code or a link to the Voice of Grace donation page, and tag friends or your church to help spread the word 3. Host a Fundraising Event Organize a dinner night, dessert social, or coffee hour at your church or home Offer a brief presentation or testimony about the mission and your calling Provide donation envelopes or the QR-coded info sheet at the event 4. Sell a Product or Offer a Service Sell T-shirts, baked goods, crafts, or mission bracelets Offer a skill-based service like babysitting, tutoring, photography, or car washing for donations Include a small flyer or sticker with the QR code to thank your donors 5. Partner with Your Church or Small Group Ask to share your story during service or in a church bulletin Host a “Missions Wall” or sponsorship board (envelopes with giving levels) Offer to follow up with a testimony after the trip to thank the congregation 6. Ask Local Businesses for Support Ask if a local business will sponsor part of your trip in exchange for being recognized on social media or at an event Leave a flyer or info sheet with the QR code for any customer-facing areas 7. Follow Up and Show Gratitude Always send a thank-you note or email to your donors Let them know how their support helped — and share updates or photos from the trip afterward Need Help? We’ve created a PDF fundraising info sheet with everything you need to get started — including a QR code that links directly to our donation page. Use it in your emails, events, or social media posts.

Our team will be staying at Hotel Hanan, a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Arequipa. The hotel offers a tranquil environment with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for our mission team.

Hotel Hanan offers a range of amenities, including: Free Wi-Fi throughout the property 24-hour front desk service Room service available until 6:00 PM On-site restaurant serving a variety of dishes Free parking (subject to availability) Airport shuttle service (additional charge) Laundry services, including ironing Elevator access, including one designed for guests with disabilities

Rooms at Hotel Hanan are elegantly decorated and equipped with: Flat-screen TVs with cable channels Private bathrooms with free toiletries Wardrobes and work desks Carpeted floors for added comfort In-room safes for securing valuables

Yes, a complimentary full breakfast is provided daily between 7:00 AM and 9:30 AM, offering a variety of options to start your day.

Check-in: From 12:00 PM Check-out: By 10:00 AM​

Yes, Hotel Hanan is situated within walking distance of several key attractions: Arequipa Plaza de Armas: Approximately 10-minute walk Arequipa Cathedral: Approximately 11-minute walk Museo Arqueológico de la Universidad Católica de Santa María: Approximately 5-minute walk