Tijuana, Mexico (May 2026) - Service Trip Recap
Dates: May 29-31, 2026
Location: Tijuana, Mexico
Over the course of one unforgettable weekend, our team had the opportunity to serve alongside our incredible partners, Jóvenes Oblatos, in Tijuana through hands-on projects, community outreach, and meaningful fellowship. From building a new roof and delivering food donations to leading activities for local children and celebrating with the community, every moment was filled with purpose and connection.
Read more about the trip below! ⬇️
Day 1
The team kicked off the trip with an early morning meetup before walking across the border into Tijuana. They immediately got to work alongside HFK's local partners - Jóvenes Oblatos, helping complete a roofing project by installing new wood supports and weatherproof lining. Throughout the day, team members learned new skills while using power saws and nail guns to bring the project to life. 🛠️
Midday, the group enjoyed a delicious cilantro chicken lunch while spending time getting to know their partners and staff. It was a meaningful opportunity to build relationships and learn more about the community they were serving. 🙌
After lunch, the team completed the roofing project, witnessing firsthand the immediate impact it would have on the family whose home they had helped improve. They then hosted an activity fair for children in the local community, spending the afternoon playing soccer, blowing bubbles, drawing with sidewalk chalk, and jumping rope. 🏠⚽️🫧
The day wrapped up with a delicious dinner of fish tacos and consommé before the team gathered for an evening of reflection and bonding. It was the perfect way to end a full and impactful first day of serving together. 🤍
Day 2
The team started the day by enjoying a delicious breakfast of chilaquiles before gathering with the local community to watch the Champions League Final. Throughout the match, everyone joined in on soccer-themed games during halftime and breaks, including a fun juggling competition that brought plenty of friendly competition and laughter. ⚽️
After the game, the team packed food donation bags and personally delivered them to families throughout the community. Many of these visits provided the opportunity to hear each family's story, build meaningful connections, and make a tangible impact through both conversation and practical support. 🫶
In the afternoon, the team participated in the church's annual Knowledge Olympics, leading team-building games such as the human knot before cheering on participants during Family Feud-style trivia competitions. Team members even had the chance to join the local teams, making the experience both interactive and memorable. 🪢
With a live band providing music throughout the event, the day ended on a joyful note as everyone celebrated with dancing. After working up an appetite, the team enjoyed an incredible carne asada dinner before gathering for evening reflections and wrapping up the night with a classic HFK favorite, Spot It! 🤍
Day 3
The team was up early and kicked off the morning with a game of ninja before heading out to a local field to host activities for more than 70 children from the community. Throughout the morning, they led soccer, volleyball, relay races, bracelet making, activity books, and more. Seeing so many smiling faces made for a memorable and rewarding morning of service. ⚽️😄
Back at the church, the team enjoyed delicious burritos for lunch. 🌯 Before saying goodbye, Jóvenes Oblatos surprised each team member with a thoughtful parting gift: a T-shirt proudly representing their ministry. It was a meaningful reminder of the friendships and partnerships built throughout the weekend.
As the trip came to a close, the team made their way back toward the border, squeezing in one final stop to pick up Mexico World Cup jerseys. 🇲🇽 With great memories made and hearts full, they headed home excited and ready for kickoff next week. ⚽️
As we reflect on this impactful weekend of service in Tijuana, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every trip participant, volunteer, and donor who made this experience possible. Your willingness to serve, give, and connect brought joy and encouragement not only to the community, but to one another as we learned, worked, and celebrated together throughout the trip.
A special thank you to our partners in Tijuana for their continued dedication and collaboration. Together, we did more than complete projects or host activities. We built relationships, shared joy, and created meaningful moments of connection through every day of service. We are grateful to be part of this ongoing story of impact.
Be sure to explore recaps from all our recent trips here!
