When is the application deadline?
The Sahara Challenge application deadline has now passed. A limited number of applicaitons will still be accepted on a first-come first-serve basis.

When are the payment deadlines?
For oversees short-term trip participants, $1500 is due by Friday May 2nd. The remaining balance for both short-term trip participants and Sahara Challenge participants is due by Friday, May 30th.

How can I get there?
By Car: Plan to arrive before 4:00 pm on Friday June 6th to complete registration (click here for driving directions).
By Air: Fly into Atlanta's Hartsfield International Airport, arriving no later than 3:00pm on Friday June 6th. Upon arrival in Atlanta you will need ride the MARTA train to the Doraville station, when you will then be picked up by the Sahara Challenge shuttle (click here for detailed information on ground transportation).

If you are only attending the Sahara Challenge training, arrange your return flight home from Atlanta leaving after 10:00 am on June 14th. If you are participating on an optional ENCOUNTER >> journey, check with your team leader for international flight itineary before booking your return travel.

Where Do I Go Once I Arrive?
Upon arriving at Simpsonwood, proceed to the Rollins Center to check in. Once there, you will recieve your room keys, training manual, and other important information about the week (click here for a map of the Simpsonwood campus).

Housing and Meals
Housing and all meals are included. If you have special dietary restrictions, please contact us in advance. If you have or a spouse or friend that you would like to room with, please come through registration together. Housing together is not guaranteed.

Dress Code
The Sahara Challenge dress code is casual. Jean, shorts and t-shirts are acceptable provided dress remains modest. Please note: we will be visiting a mosque during the training. Dress for the mosque visit should be conservative (loose fitting dress or long-skirt for women, slacks for men). Simpsonwood has a swimming pool, which you may use during downtimes. Please make sure swim attire is modest (one-piece for women).

I live near Atlanta. Can I commute?
Yes, but you may wish you were staying on site! The schedule is very full (7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. every day), so you shouldn't try to commute from very far away.Living at the dormitory minimizes distractions so that you can be as focused as possible during the training. Make sure that you can focus on the training if you choose to live at home. The cost for commuters is reduced to $300, and still includes meals.

Why is it called "The Sahara Challenge"?
The Sahara is a metaphor of the spiritual state of the Muslim world. Islam is an intricate religious/political system that has failed to offer salvation or peace to its followers. The Muslim world is in a vast state of spiritual dryness, like a desert. Our challenge as the community of Christ followers is to bring the teachings of Christ to the 1.2 billion spiritually thirsty Muslims.

Who is the Sahara Challenge designed for?
The Sahara Challenge is designed for anyone who wants to learn how to effectively reach Muslims with the gospel. Most students fall into two groups: 1) College students and professionals investigating a deeper involvement in Muslim ministry. 2) Candidates or field staff from sending agencies who want to increase their effectiveness.

Can I go on a trip without taking the week of training?
No. Because summer trips focus heavily on outreach, all participants must complete the Sahara Challenge. Crescent Project offers a number of other trips throughout the year that do not include the Sahara Challenge training. Once you have completed the Sahara Challenge training you can participate in future summer outreaches without having to repeat the training.