
STARK METHODIST CHURCH
A Global Methodist Church located in Jackson Georgia

RIVER OF LIFE
What is River of Life?
The River of Life is a transformative five-day mission program where faith meets action to restore both homes and spirits. Our volunteer youth live on-site at the church, spending their days on work crews and their evenings engaged in Bible study, singing, and fellowship. Beyond the physical labor, this experience offers our youth a unique opportunity for personal growth and leadership development, as they learn the value of selfless service and build lifelong bonds with their peers. By focusing on essential repairs—such as painting, deck restoration, wheelchair ramps, and landscaping—we provide tangible relief and a renewed sense of dignity to our neighbors in need.
This mission specifically serves qualifying residents, including the elderly, low-income families, and individuals with special needs who may struggle to maintain their homes independently. These projects are guided by the expertise of adult volunteers who serve as mentors and technical leads, ensuring every repair is handled with care while bridging the generational gap through shared service and hard work.
​​
Impact in Butts County
Over the past 20 years, the River of Life program has made a substantial impact in the community. In just 60 workdays total (3 days per year), volunteers have accomplished:
​
-
Assisted 158 homeowners
-
20 roofs replaced and 10 additional roofs patched
-
51 wheelchair ramps constructed and 1 transitional ramp
-
37 porches constructed or repaired
-
40 homes painted or weatherproofed
-
Steps and handrails installed or repaired on 25 homes
-
4 exterior doors installed
-
2 outside storage buildings constructed or repaired
​
Community Support
Ultimately, River of Life is a testament to the power of community support. This vital ministry would not be possible without the generous financial backing of local businesses and the tireless dedication of our volunteers. Together, their contributions and the energy of our youth have turned this vision into a lasting legacy of service, strengthening the very fabric of our community one home at a time.
River of Life is ultimately about neighbors helping neighbors, building stronger relationships,
and making a tangible difference in people’s lives right here in Butts County.
​