On Saturday, June 9th, 2018, JAARS, Inc hosted an open house in the form of JAARS Day. “JAARS Day gives us an opportunity to share the fascinating and important work that we do, introduce ourselves to neighbors from near and far, answer questions from folks in the community, and talk with friends who have an interest in missions, aviation, technology, and more.” explains Steve Biggerstaff, VP, Engagement of JAARS, Inc. Approximately 650 people came to visit the museums, presentations, aviation hangar, and more. There were guided tours of the museums, airplane and helicopter rides, and other interactive exhibits that explains JAARS mission. JAARS has been hosting various open houses since the 1960s and now open their campus for a behind the scenes peak four times a year.
Biggerstaff continues, “JAARS is a hub for training, attracting a constant flow of mission staff heading to and from overseas assignments, as well as home to many others who lead programs here after a lifetime in the field. Each person has a unique background, perspective, and story to tell!” He points out that each JAARS day is a variation around a common few themes. “First, people all over the world deserve the social and spiritual good that comes from having their own written language from literacy, education, economic development, and cultural preservation to the ability to hear and consider the good news of the Bible in their own heart language. Second, people without a written language typically live in places that are very remote and dangerous, and the linguists and translation workers there have significant logistical barriers (like transportation, technology, media, and training) that JAARS is well-equipped to help solve. Third, the JAARS Center and the people who serve here provide critical logistical support to roughly 50 linguistic and translation organizations working with nearly 800 language communities in over 30 countries worldwide, and that’s just over the last five years! And finally, men and women with both unique and everyday skills can play a part in missions right here in the U.S. Our staff ranges from aircraft pilots and mechanics to administrative assistants, from accounting, finance, technology, HR, communications professionals to facility managers, groundskeepers, and hospitality staff.”
JAARS has also just announced an upcoming series, “Night at the Musuem”, which will be held on June 15, August 24, September 28, and October 19. The event begins at 7 pm and while admission is free, preregistration is required by calling 704-843-6066 or emailing alphabetmuseum@jaars.org
