Forty-five teens and 23 adult chaperones from St. Joseph Parish in Mendham recently returned from a week-long mission trip to Paintsville, Ky., where they participated in the parish’s 17th annual Teen Appalachia Mission Trip from June 15 to 21. Working in partnership with Good Neighbors, Inc., a local Paintsville nonprofit organization, the team made critical home repairs for families in need in Johnson County.
Good Neighbors, Inc. serves people who are working poor in the region — families who receive no government assistance — and connects them with groups like the Mendham Mission Team. In return for home repairs, the people the group helped commit to financial literacy training and often pay it forward by helping others in their community.
This year’s volunteer projects included roof and foundation repairs, building decks, drywalling, and replacing flooring — hands-on labor that brought warmth, safety, and hope to the families served.
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The trip also emphasized human connection. Teens and families often shared meals and stories, forming lasting bonds.
“This trip allows our teens to foster relationships and grow in our God-given mission to care for our sisters and brothers in need,” said Mark Tosso, St. Joseph’s youth director. “The mission develops community within our parish and connects us all to new friends and wonderful families in Kentucky.”
Junior Ava Moynihan said, “Going on the Appalachia Mission trip is truly a one-of-a-kind opportunity. Not only did participants form a closer relationship with the Lord and make new friendships, but the trip also allowed individuals to gain a new perspective on life and the way other people live. The mission is also about developing relationships with the residents at your site — only to make the trip more enjoyable, but to help the homeowner feel more comfortable and appreciated.”
Parent chaperone Karen Connolly said the trip was “an inspiring week working alongside hardworking, resilient teens, grateful homeowners, and selfless co-chaperones who are now friends. This mission trip highlighted the power of faith and community.”
