This past January a group of 28 BASIC students and 5 leaders took a missions trip to New York City. We worked with NYSUM (New York School of Urban Ministry) all week serving in soup kitchens, playing with kids, handing out blankets and food to homeless, and doing subway ministry. We had an incredible time and after doing it I thought about how beneficial it could be for students from other BASIC groups to find ways to serve practically as well.
First, I think you should know that there are always ways to serve in the community that your college is in, even if you're in what you feel is the smallest town in America. However, I came across an idea from Benson Hines' blog awhile back for an Unplanned Mission Trip. After reading through this it sounded a little crazy, but it also sounded like it could be really fun and an excellent way to show your students that there are opportunities to serve and love people all around us on a daily basis. Make sure to read over his post and consider doing this event in the spring or in the fall.
Chris Zeigler and his wife, Cheryl, have been working with BASIC full-time since 2009 and have helped start BASIC groups in the Rochester, NY area at SUNY Geneseo, Monroe Community College, and the University of Rochester. They use their experience from starting groups and traveling to the nearly 30 BASIC ministries to consult and advise churches looking to start new BASIC groups outside of the Rochester area. He and his wife live with their daughter, Melia, in Lima, NY. You can contact Chris by emailing 
(585) 624-7930
(585) 624-1229
