The FORCE Initiative

Empowering Orthodox Christian Evangelists Through Service, Education & Leadership

Discover the FOrCE Award

Project Mexico, in partnership with Hellenic College Holy Cross and Leadership 100, presents The FOrCE (Forming Orthodox Christian Evangelists). This program invites young Orthodox Christians to:

  • Experience a summer home-building mission trip to Tijuana, Mexico with the FOrCE Award, which grants a 50% discount on the mission cost (excluding travel and incidentals).

  • Explore Christian higher education at HCHC through enriching summer internships and mentorship.

  • Participate in a three-step program that promotes growth in faith, community, and leadership:

    1. Prepare – View two webinar sessions and complete a survey to set expectations.

    2. Serve – Build alongside HCHC scholars during the summer mission.

    3. Reflect – Reconnect after the mission to explore educational and vocational next steps.

Eligibility: Open to applicants not currently enrolled at HCHC and who have not previously received the FOrCE Award.

Meet the FOrCE Speaker Series

Learn from past FOrCE recipients, scholars, clergy, and educators via our annual speaker series:

  • Gabriel Fahling: Psychology student at HCHC; shares reflections on a life of service.

  • Lidya Abraham: Music educator at Boston University; discusses “Music as Prayer.”

  • Ivy Gabriella Tesfay: Youth ministry professional; on “The Journey to Thanksgiving.”

  • Presvytera Sarah: Advocate for faith-driven community engagement.

  • Fr. George Parsenios, Dr. Ann Mitsakos Bezzerides, Fr. Demetrios & more: Inspiring insights on vocation, orthodoxy, and leadership.

Each session offers a unique perspective on living a faith-centered life. Watch the full series on YouTube to hear their stories.

Why Watch & Apply

  • Be inspired: Real participants share how service, faith, and education shaped their lives.

  • Learn clearly: Understand eligibility, application steps, funding, and mission details.

  • Take action: Stream the video playlist, complete the survey, and start your application today.

📌 Apply | CLOSED FOR 2025

Begin your journey with The FOrCE Award:

  1. Watch at least two videos from the playlist.

  2. Complete the Award Survey.

  3. Submit your application and await our Notification (within 3–5 business days).

FAQs

Is the mission free?
The FOrCE Award covers 50% of the homebuilding fee. Travel and personal expenses are the participant’s responsibility.

Who can apply?
Any Orthodox Christian who is not currently enrolled at HCHC and hasn't received the FOrCE Award before.

When will I hear back?
You can expect a decision within 3–5 business days after submitting your application.

Join The FOrCE to serve, learn, and grow in your faith and leadership journey. Watch the playlist below. Applications will open late fall, 2025. Check back or join our mailing list to stay up to date.

Watch The FOrCE Playlist: Christian Leadership, Education & Mission in Action

Curious about opportunities to grow in your faith, serve others, and explore Christian higher education? The FOrCE (Forming Orthodox Christian Evangelists) is a special initiative of Project Mexico, in partnership with Hellenic College Holy Cross and Leadership 100, designed to inspire and guide young Orthodox Christians like you.

🎥 Watch this playlist to hear real stories from past participants, experience the life-changing impact of Project Mexico’s homebuilding mission trips, and discover how the FOrCE Award can open doors to faith-based education, summer internships, and deeper involvement in Church life — all while serving in Tijuana, Mexico, at a partial discount OR no cost.

Ready to Be Inspired? Start Watching Now!

Explore what’s possible. Learn about the FOrCE Award. See faith in action.
👉 Watch the full playlist below and take the next step in your journey.