Experience RTRA

AN IMMERSIVE SERVICE EXPERIENCE

Experience holistic community transformation first-hand by visiting Raise the Roof Academy in Bwasandeku, Uganda. Every Raise the Roof Academy trip is designed to offer an exclusive, educational, and hands-on experience. You will be given a unique opportunity to see a thriving school and sustainable development projects in action. You will be able to interact with students on a daily basis and gain a better understanding of how local leaders are transforming the community in which our students live. At RTRA, we encourage you to work alongside staff, caregivers, volunteers, and community members to celebrate their accomplishments and develop relationships.

There are also ample opportunities to explore Uganda, including the chance to experience rich cultures and customs. Enjoy the country’s natural beauty by taking a cruise down the Nile and be wowed by wildlife on a safari game-drive at Murchison Falls National Park. 

2025 SUMMER MISSION, June 25-July 6

Mission Trip Steps: 

  1. Express interest: Please contact Marlene at 615-686-9085 or marlene@raisetheroofacademy.org to get an overview of this year’s trip.

  2. Fill out Online Application

  3. Email your Passport and Yellow Fever: Take a photo of your passport showing all 4 corners of the profile page and then email it to marlene@raisetheroofacademy.org along with a photo of your yellow fever vaccination record.

  4. Book flight: To get good fares for international travel, we are booking tickets early.

  5. Attend Sessions: We will meet on Zoom to walk through the Mission Course and prepare for our projects.

“I want to be a teacher and this mission week has helped me so much because I interacted with different teachers who helped share with me the subjects to take if you want to become a teacher.” - Maria Namujuuzi, RTRA Student

Our Summer Mission includes leadership training for community members, Rhino Kid’s Camp for RTRA students, a community-wide medical clinic for those needing care, and educational opportunities for members of our Center for Social Enterprise. As a participant in this fun-filled, educational trip you will have an opportunity to meet RTRA students, staff, and community leaders.

The Summer Mission is a two-week trip, with groups ranging from 20-40 people. We accept independent travelers and larger groups from schools, churches, or companies who are looking for deeper engagement with the RTRA community.

“It’s obvious that here children can be themselves, they’re safe, and they can express themselves.” - Kim McDonough, RTRA 2022 Alumni

WINTER VISION, January 27-February 9

The Winter Vision Trip is a professional development experience for those looking to cultivate strategic partnerships with RTRA. The itinerary of this trip is built around the unique capacities of each participant, as we hope that you will share your background and experience with our students, staff and community leaders.

In the past, we have hosted sessions on curriculum and exam development, a conference on leadership and the disciplines of execution, and a retreat for Raise the Roof High School students.

If you are looking to focus on a specific RTRA program, this is a great trip for you. For more information, please send us an e-mail!