Unit
Nestled in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains southeast of Clarksburg, Philippi is a small town of nearly 3,200 people that faces many challenges related to life in a rural community with limited employment. The Philippi Service Adventure unit is located in a residential area on the northeastern side of town.
Church
Started in 1989, the Philippi unit is sponsored by Philippi Mennonite Church, a house church with around 35 participants. With an alternative, community-based style of worship, Philippi Mennonite Church has hosted Latin American refugees, promoted community outreach, and encouraged responsible stewardship of the world's resources since its inception in the early 1980s. As an Anabaptist congregation, Philippi Mennonite views peace and justice within personal, church, community and world affairs as central to their message.
Service
With the challenges of a high unemployment rate, Philippi participants can expect placements to focus primarily on social service agencies. A wide variety of service options are available to Service Adventure participants in Philippi. Common placements include work with child care as teachers' assistants and tutors, health care, elder care, and several options with local thrift stores.