Not at all. In our home, we have a son that has tested anaphylactic to dairy, so we don’t keep any in our house. We also eat gluten-free. That is to say, we know our way around allergies.

Of course. Most days, there is “tech time” between 4 and 5 PM. The rest of the time, you are free! (from the binds of technology)

There is a full-size, modern washer and dryer available for your use during designated times. We’re glad to teach you how to use them.

A gap year is a break from formal education, usually taken between high school and college or during college, to pursue other interests such as travel, work, volunteerism, or personal projects. In our case, it’s a 36-week experience designed to help you launch into life, whether that’s college, the workforce, ministry, or the foreign mission field.

The benefits include gaining real-world experience, personal growth, developing new skills, improving college or job applications, and avoiding burnout. Read more here.

You’ve got options, including saving money beforehand, applying for scholarships, grants, and loans, or seeking financial support from your community for this mission endeavor.

Yes! And simply using common sense will keep you from the only real “danger” of petty theft. Costa Rica is considered the premiere safe but exotic place to visit.

Check if your current health insurance covers you abroad or if you need travel insurance. There are no currently required vaccinations for Costa Rica.

Many colleges support gap years and some even encourage them. It's important to communicate with your prospective or current institution about your plans.

Contact the admissions office of the college to understand their deferral policy, submit any required forms or letters, and confirm your spot for the following year.

Yes, it can enhance your resume by demonstrating maturity, independence, and a range of skills. Experiences during a gap year can also provide valuable insights and connections in your field of interest.

Skills can range from language proficiency, cultural competency, project management, leadership, and adaptability, to specific technical skills related to work or volunteer projects. At the Launch 61, you’ll learn music, leadership, entrepreneurship, hospitality, maintenance, carpentry, coaching, and load more. Check this.

Plan your re-entry by staying in touch with your educational institution or employer, reflecting on your gap year experiences, and preparing to discuss what you've learned during interviews or applications.

A gap year can be a time for self-discovery. If your goals change, research new opportunities and consider how your experiences can be integrated into your new path.

Honestly, this is our number one goal: for you to fall more in love with Jesus and launch into a life of givenness to Him! We will worship, pray, study scripture, and be mentored spiritually.

You can expect to live and interact with like-minded peers, fostering a supportive Christian community through shared experiences and fellowship.

We emphasize core Christian beliefs while respecting denominational differences, encouraging unity and respect among participants. You can read what we believe here.

Preparation can involve prayer, meeting with spiritual advisors, budgeting, packing appropriately, and understanding the our requirements and expectations.

The Launch 61 costs $15,500 for the 36-week program. While we don’t have scholarships available, you can find a list of ideas at www.thelaunch61.com/blog/1.

The Launch 61 is a 36-week program. The 2024-25 dates are: September 6 - December 13 and January 11 - June 13.

We are working to get college credit through Anchor University with the following schools: Carin University, Cedarville University, Clarks Summit University, Lancaster Bible College, Liberty University, and Southeastern University. There is an extra fee of $200 per credit hour for students desiring college credit.

Ad Lib Music is a well-established worship coaching organization that has been supporting worship leaders since 2002. After 22 years in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, its founder, Dave Helmuth, followed the Lord, moving his family to Costa Rica in 2019. He continues to lead the team of coaches in Pennsylvania, Texas, and Colorado from there.

¡Claro que si! Dave, the leader of The Launch 61, was born to parents of long-term missionaries in Costa Rica. When he was almost 12 years old, his family moved San Antonio, Texas, and after graduating from UTSA, he moved to Lancaster, Pennsylvania. There he met his wife Heather, and they started their family. They all either know or are learning Spanish.

You have no idea! Living in Costa Rica IS an adventure, but we will have trips to beaches, volcanos, waterfalls, and much of what Costa Rica has to offer. The highlight will be a professionally-guided 16-day, 175 mile hike from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. Don’t worry, we’ll all be training together for it.