The majority of our donors choose to participate in our Stock Program. This fundraiser stems from an understanding of the importance of investing in missions, and especially in our Orthodox Youth. Just as when Biblical fishermen went out to sea, an entire village had already built their nets, the support of each youth participant's entire parish is crucial for a beneficial OYMT experience.

Shareholders receive updates throughout the year, including a personal thank you from one or more of our youth participants, a handwritten postcard from the mission trip, and an emailed newsletter featuring reflections written by each youth. In August and September, youth and adult leaders give a presentation at each participating parish to share their experiences and thank their supporters.

The stock purchase form will ask who you are donating on behalf of. You can choose to purchase stock on behalf of

1. An individual OYMT youth participant,
2. All OYMT participants (youth and adults) from your parish, or
3. The entire Orthodox Youth Mission Team.

Each youth participant of OYMT pledges to sell 50 shares of stock per year. Parish donations are not included in this count. 

Stock sales begin in early February of each year when solicitation letters are mailed to each youth participant's family, friends, and parishioners. Stock sales continue until May 1st.

Any donations received outside of February-May are greatly appreciated and are treated as general donations.

Godparent Donors are those who purchase 50 shares or more ($500+ donation) in any one year. Godparent Donors receive special perks and recognition.

The entirety of our youths' participation fees go to our partner organization, Appalachia Service Project, and we also have to pay this fee ($375) on behalf of each adult leader. All other costs are covered entirely by fundraising. In any given year, stock sales account for up to 80% of our fundraising!

Your generosity:

• Funds transportation and accommodations to and from the mission trip destination;
• Provides scholarships for Youth who cannot afford ASP's volunteer fee, which covers basic per-person expenses on each mission trip;
• Covers the ASP volunteer fee for OYMT's adult leaders, who sacrifice a week of work or PTO to chaperone the trip;
• Funds training costs throughout the year;
• Covers the increasing costs of trip supplies, tools, etc; and
• Allows us to provide necessary items for the homeowners we meet on our mission trips.