WHEN: March 8 – 16, 2025
WHERE: Cipo (March 9-11) and Feira de Santana (March 11-16), Brazil
COST: $3,700

Interns participating in the Spring Break Brazil 2025 trip will receive training on the biblical view of disability and a theology of suffering through Beyond Suffering remotely prior to leaving. Then, in practical application of their learning, interns will serve people affected by disability through the local church. They will receive hands-on experience in leading students with disabilities in a Christian school classroom in Cipo and as buddies at a Family Retreat in Feira de Santana. Interns will travel to Salvador, Brazil, where they will spend the night before making the trip to Cipo, in the interior of Bahia state. They will partner with Joni and Friends ministry leaders in Cipo and Feira de Santana. The Joni and Friends International Family Retreat is in cooperation with First Baptist Church Feira de Santana, which is active in ministry to people living with disabilities in its city of 650,000 people. Interns will model inclusion as they serve as buddies to these campers, while their caregivers receive much needed respite. Camp programs consist of small group discussions, arts and crafts, recreation and games, bible stories, and more! All interns are granted an opportunity to use their gifts and skillsets to serve their team and people affected by disability. Whether you’re majoring in special education, therapy, ministry, or have great organizational, photography, or writing skills, come ready to unite as a team to bring hope only God can provide for those marginalized within society. Interns will experience the culture and sights of Bahia by visiting local restaurants and shops, exploring beautiful landscapes and beaches, and dining at a Brazilian steakhouse. *All associated costs are included in the cost of the internship.

“This internship has transformed how I view others affected by disability. Going to Brazil has made me aware of some of the disparities in an international context, such as lack of ADA requirements and wheelchairs. However, it has also made me see the similarities of being made in the image of Christ. I was overcome with how full of joy and life everyone was. Especially as a future occupational therapist, this experience has helped prepare me to have a heart more of compassion and love for the individuals I help.”
— Intern Megan Leong, from 2024 trip

TRAINING

• Beyond Suffering: Learn about suffering and disability from a biblical and cultural point of view
• Orientation of Joni and Friends ministry
• Receive mentoring which will allow you to use your education and skillsets in the field of disability

HANDS-ON MINISTRY

• Work alongside Joni and Friends partners to care for and improve the lives of people in Bahia, Brazil
• Serve in churches while getting exposed to needs of people with disabilities in the local community and help them get connected to the local church
• Serve at Joni and Friends International Family Retreat
• Work with organizations ministering to people with disabilities

MENTORING

• Be mentored and challenged to implement disability ministry as part of your life calling
• Be discipled in what it means to be a servant leader

A limited number of scholarships are available on a first-come, first-serve basis for individuals in need of financial assistance. College credit may also be available depending on the requirements of your university. We are carefully proceeding with this internship with safety protocols in place. If Joni and Friends cancels the event, we will refund or reallocate the donations in accordance with our current policies.

[email protected] | (818) 707-5664

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