FAQs

About BMI

Q: I AM NOT CATHOLIC. CAN I STILL JOIN A BMI MISSION TRIP?

A: Yes, of course.  One of the core BMI missions is to connect beyond Catholic and Korean-American.  While we intend for various reasons to limit participation to those above 18 years old, we are basically open to anyone who shares the passion to serve Christ.  Although largely created by Korean Catholics, BMI is open to anyone with a vision to serve God through their many talents.

Q: WHAT IS THE AGE REQUIREMENT OF MISSION TRIPS?

A: As mentioned above, we intend to accept college-aged students and above due to liability issues. However, we have accepted some high school students who are accompanied by their parents. Applicants who are under 18 years old need to write a one-page essay why they would like to participate on BMI mission to be considered.

Q: WHAT ARE THE MISSION OPPORTUNITIES?

A: BMI’s overseas mission opportunities have been established. We have, so far, bridged to Haiti, Mexico, Jamaica, Peru, Chile, Uganda, Bolivia and Myanmar. Due to limited manpower and resources, we can only do outreach when leaders are available. One of our goals is to develop a leadership group to expand beyond the countries listed above.

Q: WHAT WILL WE BE DOING?

A: BMI’s main mission is to bridge between lay people and the missionaries all over the world. When one decides to join a BMI mission trip, his or her mission trip has begun. During the short-term mission trip, we basically live the daily lives of missionaries in the country where we visit. Depending on the apostolic work of the missionaries, the work can be varied. Past mission trip activity included: medical assistance, teaching, house chores, feet washing, home building, cooking, playing, home visitation, etc.

Q: IS IT SAFE?

A: Safety is not guaranteed in the areas where BMI visits. We do stay, however, in a confined monastery, church, or Sister’s house, all of which are relatively safe. When we are outside, everyone needs to be extremely cautious and follow the direction of the missionaries or the leader of BMI.

Q: HOW MUCH DOES A MISSION TRIP COST?

A: The application fee of the mission trip is based on the international airline ticket price, though is set below the actual cost of air ticket, transportation, lodging, and food during the mission trip to encourage first-timer experience in mission trips. Therefore, we encourage participants to find their own financial sponsors, such as family and friends, who can support them for the mission trip.  Each participant is expected to raise at least $1,000 individually to cover the cost and donation to the mission country by following the guidelines for fundraising endeavors to meet the expectation.

Q: DO WE NEED INSURANCE?

A: BMI does not provide insurance. For that reason, we expect all participants to sign a waiver. It’s up to you to purchase any liability or medical insurance to cover the duration of your mission trip.

Q: I WANT TO MAKE A FINANICAL CONTRIBUTION TO BMI. HOW CAN I DO THIS?

A: You can make a financial contribution to BMI. You can designate your donation to be used for a specific purpose, such as the Rice Project, Dream Project, or general funds. Since BMI was established in 2009, 100% of our funds have been used for specific purposes. You can also contribute monthly through EFT, credit card, or check. Click here [link to DONATE]

Q: WHAT IS THE OVERHEAD EXPENSE TAKEN OUT OF MY DONATION?

A: We have no paid employees and all are volunteers; therefore, we have no payroll or administration fees. 100% of your donation goes to the needy.

Q: I AM WRITING A CHECK. TO WHOM SHALL I MAKE OUT THE CHECK AND MAIL IT?

A: Please make checks out to the order of “BMI,” then mail it to either of the following addresses.

Q: IS MY PERSONAL INFORMATION SAFE?

A: We take cyber security seriously and keep any personal identifiable information (PII) data secure.  All credit card contributions are processed through a creditable credit card processing vendor.

Q: HOW DO I REQUEST A TAX RECEIPT? ARE DONATIONS TAX-DEDUCTIBLE?

A: Bridge of Mission International (BMI) is a public charitable non-profit organization with a section 501©(3) status with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Therefore, your donation is tax-deductible. You will either receive an annual receipt or one-time receipt, depending upon your sponsorship status. In case you didn’t receive a receipt, please send an email to BMI at info_bmi2009@gmail.com.