The Joe Rush Center for Urban Mission provides opportunities for groups to experience inner-city ministry by painting houses for low-income homeowners throughout Jefferson County.
Our goal is to grow reciprocal relationships through ministry, and our vision is that those who come to serve with us in ministry benefit from the experience just as much as those we serve here in Birmingham.
Mission camps
We offer full-service mission camps for middle school, high school, college-aged and older groups. The goal of the Rush Camp is to strengthen relationships between volunteer groups and homeowners in the community over a can of paint and a paint brush. During your time with us, your group will consider important issues from a Christian perspective such as poverty, racism, and affordable housing.
Many groups spend a full week (Sunday night through Friday morning) in residence at Urban Ministry's dorm facility, located at Walnut Grove United Methodist Church in Midfield. Groups will work during the day and reflect on their service in the evening. We welcome groups from March through October to work in this program. We are also available to host retreats and other events throughout the year.Dorm facility
Our dorm is located in the education building of Walnut Grove UMC in Midfield, Alabama. It was renovated in 2004 with shower facilities and an industrial kitchen. We can accommodate up to 80 people in bunk-style dorm rooms. Click here for more photos. Pricing
Mission camps are $275/person for 5 days and 5 nights including room, board, daily mission activities, and evening programs. For every 6 youth who attend, an adult chaperone may attend free of charge.
For day groups not staying in the dorms, a donation of $10/person will cover all painting materials and staff support. An extra $5/day will cover the cost of lunch.
To reserve the Rush dormitory in the off season for your own organization's retreat, or to participate in weekend service camps, contact us for pricing details.
Learn More
Check out our FAQs and contact Rush director Danny Jones at 205.781.0517 ext. 101 or via email for details about how your group can get involved.