Students Build Ramps for Residents in Need During Manchester Mission Trip

A group of students from Madison Academy and Louisville Academy recently partnered with AdventHealth Manchester for a mission trip in Manchester, Ky., to build wheelchair ramps and porches for patients in need of improved accessibility to their homes. For Madison Academy, the mission trip, which took place from September 25 to September 27, 2024, is a continued a tradition spanning nearly 40 years, while Louisville Academy participated for the first time.

In addition to addressing accessibility needs, the mission trip also provided students with a hands-on opportunity to serve a community facing significant economic challenges.

“This area is one of the poorest in the country, and the need is so great,” said Andrew Jamieson, Vice Principal of Student Life at Madison Academy. Jamieson has been leading the mission trip for the past 18 years. “Building these ramps helps residents regain their independence, and it's a tangible way to show love and support to the community.”

Christian Harris, a senior at Madison Academy, explained how his group worked to replace a dilapidated porch and build a ramp for a resident whose wife struggles with mobility.

“It’s hard work, but it’s worth it to see the difference it makes,” he said. “You don’t realize how much you can help until you’re here.”

The experience was just as meaningful for students from Louisville Academy. Isaac Chiquillo, a junior, said he joined the trip to try something new and to help others.

 “Even though the weather was tough, I learned a lot—not just about construction, but about what it means to serve,” Chiquillo said. “As Christians, it’s our responsibility to help others and show them God’s love.”

For many students, the trip also provided a deeper understanding of their faith. Alexis Boskind, a senior at Madison Academy, emphasized how the mission allowed her to show Christ’s love through action.

“You don’t have to preach to share Jesus—you just have to show kindness,” Boskind said. “By building these ramps, we’re helping people live better lives, and that’s what being a Christian is all about.”

Despite the challenges, including cold and rainy weather, the students expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

“We’re out here in the rain, working hard, but it’s fun because we know we’re making a difference,” said Susan Oms, a junior from Louisville Academy. “There are so many ways we can help people if we just try.”

This mission trip has been a staple at Madison Academy for decades, with hundreds of students participating over the years. Louisville Academy’s involvement signals a potential expansion of the program, a fact that Jamieson finds exciting.

“We hope Louisville will come back again next year,” Jamison said. “This kind of service leaves a lasting impact on both the students and the community.”