2025 World Race | Gap Year 25G0901 - Leader

Discover more of God, yourself, and your calling

World Race: Gap Year is a 9-month Christian gap year program created for recent high school graduates to serve others, dive into Christian community, and grow in your identity and faith. Gap Year gives you an opportunity to work alongside experienced leaders who are sharing the hope of Jesus and meeting the tangible needs of their communities every day. Along the way, you’ll discover more of God, yourself, and your calling. Gap Year is not a year off. It’s the launching pad for seeking first the Kingdom of God for the rest of your life.

Route Info!!

Colombia: From the Andes Mountains to the Caribbean coastline and the Amazon Rainforest, Colombia is one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world. Colombia sits at the crossroads of Central and South America, allowing for a widespread diversity of cultures. Currently, there is a large influx of Venezuelan refugees coming through Colombia, putting a strain on its economic resources. Many in Colombia have been affected by homelessness, drug addiction, or violence from drug trafficking, but God is bringing hope and restoration.

Vietnam: After nearly a century of French rule, Vietnam split into the communist (north) and non-communist (south) in the 1950s. Conflict between the two sides led to the Vietnam War. However, by 1975, Vietnam was restored as a completely communist country. Even with the economic reforms and restoration of diplomatic ties, human rights are limited in Vietnam—especially freedom of religion. Over 80% of Vietnamese don’t claim any religion, and about 8% are Buddhist. Vietnam’s story is one of searching and fighting for freedom.

Philippines: Known for its diverse terrain of mountains, volcanoes, and beaches, the Philippines is a popular haven for tourists. A melting pot of cultures, religion, and tradition, the beautiful people of the Philippines are very diverse, with influences from America, Spain, and other Asian countries. More than a getaway for Westerners, this 7,000-island archipelago is home to many who earn less than 15 cents per day, giving them the status of “ultra poor”. In order to survive, some have resorted to prostitution and human trafficking. Will you share the freedom of life in Christ in the Philippines?

South Africa: Known for soccer, safaris, and beautiful scenery and coast lines, South Africa is the southernmost country in Africa. The country is among the most diverse on the continent, with people from many ethnic groups and nationalities living in the same communities. Workers often come from other countries to support their families at home. Challenges linger following the country’s history with aparthied and the nation is still in the process of healing and reconciliation.