From “I’ll Never Go” to “Send Me”

This might surprise some of you who have supported me over the years—but when I first started working at Camp Sonshine, I told myself one thing:

“I’ll never go on an international trip.”

Cue the laughter now.

Honestly, I’m not sure why I felt so strongly. Maybe it was stubbornness. Maybe it was skepticism. But I held on tightly to the idea that short-term mission trips did more harm than good—that they were more about the travelers’ experience than the impact on the local community.

I had seen groups return from church mission trips or Camp Sonshine International trips with joy-filled stories about how God had moved in their lives. I thought, “That’s great for them, but I don’t want to take joy from an experience when people on the ground might be left behind in hard circumstances.”

But God had a different plan for me.

When Everything Changed

Everything shifted when my parents were invited to serve on a Camp Sonshine International (CSI) trip to Mexico. They had always talked about wanting to go on a mission trip, so I helped them fundraise and they went.

They came back with story after story of how the local leaders valued these visits—not because outsiders came to “fix” anything, but because the camp teams helped breathe energy, encouragement, and momentum into what was already happening.

Kids in Mexico looked up to counselors who loved Jesus—not the gang leaders they saw on the streets. And the programs in the community centers became more alive as camp infused joy, fun, and attendance into ministries that provided food, education, and hope.

Hearing those stories softened my heart. Over time, God showed me that these trips weren’t about outsiders “saving the day”—they were about standing alongside faithful leaders and children, cheering them on in the mission God had already given them.

So the very next year, I signed up for my first CSI trips—to Mexico and Zambia. And my life hasn’t been the same since.

How CSI Changed Me

Since then, I’ve been to both Mexico and Zambia twice. And while I’ve gone to serve, I’ll admit—God has used these trips to grow me more than I could have imagined:

Family on Mission: Serving next to my parents in Mexico has been one of the greatest gifts. Together, we’ve been able to surround my uncle and cousin—who don’t yet know the Lord—with Christian community. I’ve even seen my uncle begin serving his neighbors in new ways. I’m praying he continues on this journey toward Jesus.

Deep Friendships: Whether it’s bonding with fellow team members or building lasting relationships with leaders in Zambia, these trips have given me friendships that strengthen my faith and remind me I’m not alone in this mission.

A Heart Stretched by God: I’ve experienced God’s presence in ways I can hardly put into words—through joy, through hardship, and through the beauty of His people across the world. I’ve seen places where Heaven and Earth meet, and I’m so grateful for it.

How CSI Impacts Mexico & Zambia

Beyond what God has done in me, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of CSI trips on local communities:

Mexico: Camp experiences draw kids back into the community center, where they receive food, English classes, and—most importantly—Jesus. When attendance starts to fade, the joy of camp rekindles interest and engagement.
Zambia: We’ve helped train local staff to run their own camp programs. Unlike in the U.S., counselors are often teachers, older students, or community leaders. Seeing teachers step into the role of “fun leaders” breaks down barriers with their students and opens new doors for trust, care, and discipleship.

These are not quick, one-time experiences—they’re building blocks toward long-term flourishing in these communities.

How You Can Join Me

This January, I’ll be leading the Mexico trip, and in April, I’ll return to Zambia for my third trip. I’m stepping out in faith, knowing I can’t do this without a team of prayer and financial supporters standing with me.

Prayer Requests

Pray for the Mexico and Zambia programs as they serve children daily.
Pray for our CSI teams as we prepare and train.
Pray for provision—I need to raise $2,000 for Mexico and $3,000 for Zambia (a total of $5,000 for my family and me).
Pray for wisdom and sustainability as my family and I look toward long-term involvement in these trips.

Partner With Me

If you feel led, I’d love for you to join my support team:

Give: Your financial gifts directly make these trips possible.
Pray: Your prayers cover the work God is doing in Mexico, Zambia, and in me.
Encourage: Notes, texts, and messages of support keep me going when the work feels hard.

Together, we can build God’s kingdom—not just here, but around the world.

👉 If you feel led, you can donate (tax deductible gift) now at CampSonshineMemories.org/Give. Just don’t forget to put “Adrianna” or “The Tarin Family” in the comments with your gift.
👉 25 – 26 Fundraising Goal: $5,000
👉 25 – 26 Funds Raised So Far: $800

Cliff Dwellers