Our History
Founded in 1975, Sierra Service Project was inspired by and modeled after Appalachian Service Project. Originally founded by several United Methodist Church ministers, SSP is now an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We maintain a close affiliation with the United Methodist Church, but we also draw participants from a number of other denominations.
SSP's "traditional" youth program is centered around youth groups, and a young person must be part of a group to attend. SSP believes that young people develop a strong and deep understanding of God's gifts and God's grace through the direct experience of being in service to others.
Continuing the SSP Service Tradition
SSP continues to have a profound impact on the lives of our campers, staff, volunteers and host communities. If you are already part of the SSP family, you know the truth of this statement. If you are not yet part of the SSP family, we welcome you and hope that you will consider building with us.
Timeline
| 1969 | Appalachia Service Project (ASP) established; Rev. Tex Evans brings 50 volunteers to Frakes, Kentucky for four weeks | |
| 1975 | ASP sponsors satellite operations in California, Alabama, Texas, and North Dakota (All except California have since closed) | |
| 1976 | Sierra Service Project's first summer; one site operated with leadership by Rev. Dave Wolf and Floyd McKeithen | |
| 1978 | SSP operates two summer sites | |
| 1979 | Incorporates as an independent nonprofit | |
| 1993 | Paige Eaves is hired as the first full time Executive Director | |
| 1994 | Expands to three summer sites; operates first site outside of California (Arizona) | |
| 1998 | Expands to four summer sites | |
| 2001 | Young Adult program piloted | |
| Rick and Toni Eaton are hired as Executive Director and Administrator; first year with two full time employees | ||
| 2002 | First tool trailer purchased | |
| 2003 | Honduras Homebuilding program established | |
| Expands to five summer sites | ||
| 2004 | Urban Los Angeles program established | |
| 2006 | Associate Director is hired | |
| First Alternative Spring Break project in Los Angeles | ||
| Expands to six summer sites | ||
| 2008 | Junior High program established | |
| Tijuana, Mexico program piloted (only year) | ||
| 2009 | Construction Project Manager is hired halftime | |
| Intern is hired full time | ||
| First Alternative Winter Break project in Los Angeles | ||
| 2010 | Expands to seven summer sites | |
| 2,071 youth and adults participate in the Summer Program, highest ever | ||
| 2011 | Sacramento Weekend of Service piloted | |
| Study and Serve program piloted in Guatemala | ||
| Portland Weekend of Service piloted | ||