Since 1980, we have given back to the community we love so much through our service. Gods Love, Through our Service, Bridges the GAP.

Our Story 

The Gainesville Aid Project, or “GAP” was started by the youth group of Antioch United Methodist Church in 1980 after returning from the mountains of Appalachia where they worked in a service type camp organization located there. The idea that they could truly be “God’s hands and feet” to people around them locally as well took root in the hearts and minds of these young campers as they headed for their home in Gainesville.

Forty three summers later GAP’s mission to serve those in need due to age or disability at no cost to the client they are working for is still going strong. During two different sessions in the summer, and open to all denominations, Gappers gather from churches all over North Georgia to spend five days building wheelchair ramps, mowing lawns, making home repairs and providing any service that they can to the elderly, disabled, and disadvantaged of the community. The motto of GAP, “God’s love, through our service, bridges the GAP,” is a literal action put to work through these 12 teams of 6 to 8 youth and adults as they go out serving others during the day and return back in the evenings to fellowship and worship with one another at the Antioch United Methodist Church and Campground. This program is completely staffed and supported by volunteers.

For many GAPPERS, coming face-to-face with those in need and offering their talents and skills to help is a life-changing experience. They come not knowing the skills that they have, but then leave feeling a strong sense of empowerment and confidence. Not only do they have these skills, but they can actually make a difference using them. It is not unusual for young Gappers to come back year after year, assuming adult leadership roles as they grow up in the program.

If you're thinking of bringing a group from your church and you'd like more information, contact Ken Parker, our director.