Contact: Alex Coffin, InChrist Communications, 704-364-2049, ACoffin@InChristCommunications.com

MEDIA ADVISORY, Feb. 7 /Christian Newswire/ -- "Vacations with a Purpose," the growing trend among American Christians to use their vacation time for short-term mission trips, is at an all-time high.  More than 1.6 million Americans are now using their vacations for overseas mission trips alone, contributing an estimated $6 billion annually in labor around the world.

Wycliffe Associates, founded in 1967 to support and encourage Bible translators in tangible, practical ways, provides opportunities for volunteers to use their gifts and abilities in hands-on projects, meeting the real needs of Bible translators on the mission field.

Wycliffe Associates devotes $10 million a year in recruiting, training and sending volunteers overseas to assist missionaries.  Part of its investment is its new Volunteer Mobilization Center, a 16,000-square-foot facility in Orlando, Fl., which will be used to mobilize thousands of volunteers heading out on short-term missions.  Designed and built primarily by volunteers, the center will "service a growing tide of American's seeking to use their free time more productively," according Bruce Smith, president and chief executive officer of Wycliffe Associates.

Wycliffe Associates has authored an extensive feature story on "Vacations with a Purpose," which can be viewed at http://wfx.us/news/2008-0207.htm.  Sub-sections of the article include:

• 50,000 Churches Participating
• Disasters Changed Landscape
• Baby Boomers Lead the Way
• Advice to Those Who Want to Participate

The article can be used in whole, in part or as an idea or catalyst for an original article or news feature on this interesting and timely topic.

Photos and cutlines also are included.

If you would like to interview a representative from Wycliffe Associates or need additional information, please contact Alex Coffin at 704-364-2049 or ACoffin@InChristCommunications.com.