Social Media Tools Blend Virtual Capabilities with Honduran Mission Trip

Contact: Bill Jenkins, BJ Communications, 602-315-5566

PHOENIX, Mar. 3 /Christian Newswire/ -- Spring break is undoubtedly a time that all college students anticipate. The break will be far from typical, however, for students at an Arizona university who will focus their energies on doing good, rather than being bad. And they're inviting anyone and everyone to watch them along the way.

"Spring break alternatives are becoming a popular choice, as many students prefer to devote the week to service-oriented travel," said Elliott Lemenager, social media strategist at Grand Canyon University (GCU), a leading Phoenix-based private, intentionally Christian university. "This trip will enable us to spawn conversation about what is going on in Honduras through social media channels, and demonstrate how GCU is serving others on a global level."

Also on the nine-day mission trip will be two GCU sophomore students - Karissa Kelsey and Alyssa Adams. Both are looking forward to the chance to "give back" during a week typically devoted to partying.

"I feel so blessed to be able to go and serve in a country where there is so much need," said Clarkstown, Wash.-native Adams. "If I reach just one person, it will be a successful trip."

While on the trip, they'll harness the opportunity to share their experience with others through social media, inviting site visitors to engage in live chat via Ustream, live video, photo journaling and blogging.

"We're fortunate in that we'll have the capability to invite those from around the world to be global citizens right alongside us as we reach out to the villagers," said Lemenager. "We'll be posting daily for anyone who is interested in following us, essentially blending the worldwide virtual landscape with a very untouched one."

The majority of the trip will be spent in la Esperanza, Honduras where the group will serve in various ways - educating about Christianity and offering much needed food, comfort and clothing. They will visit the smaller outlying villages to spread faith-based messages.

"I'm nervous because I've never engaged people like this before, but I know God will speak through me when the time comes" said Rancho Cucamonga native Karissa Kelsey, who hails from Rancho Cucamonga, CA.

For those wishing to follow the three travelers visit www.gcumissions.com. More information about GCU's programming is available at www.gcu.edu or by calling 800.800.9776.