Discover Our Mission, Values, and Impact
Learn About In Our Hands
With years of experience leading service teams both in the U.S. and abroad as a minister, I’ve seen the incredible joy and fulfillment that come from building, creating, and serving together. These experiences have shown me how service can transform not only the communities we support but also the people who take part—opening hearts, shifting perspectives, and forging lifelong connections.
My passion is helping individuals and groups find service projects that truly resonate with them, whether close to home or across the world. When people align their skills and interests with meaningful work, service becomes more than just giving—it becomes a powerful, life-enriching experience. Through IN OUR HANDS, I strive to create opportunities that inspire, connect, and leave a lasting impact.
Founder of IN OUR HANDS
Meet Joanne
Through hands-on projects and shared experiences, IN OUR HANDS creates opportunities for service that inspire growth, connection, and lasting change.
Making an Impact, Together
Our trips combine meaningful volunteer work with friendship, culture, and fresh perspectives. Whether you want to give back, explore, or find inspiration, our experiences are designed to be transformative.
A New Way to Experience Service
At IN OUR HANDS, service is about more than giving back—it’s about connection. We bring together people from different backgrounds to make an impact while learning from one another.
Service That Brings Us Together
- Carol
"Standing at the Alabama river in Montgomery, ….where the slaves were unloaded from boats and marched in chains….past throngs of white people, it’s beyond my imagination to think of this. My heart and my eyes have been opened by this experience. I am grateful."
- Ann
"I continue to wonder how I could’ve lived through the 1960s without knowing much about this period of history in the US. The African-American experience is real history in our country. We cannot let this dehumanization happen again!"
- Steve
…a highlight for me was our experience at Dexter Church and the parsonage. It was so amazing to hear from Wanda Battle , who encouraged us and even helped us to sing in public!!
- Karen
"What a treat and delight to begin the day by listening to Carolyn McKinstry!"
This is the letter from MLK Jr. while he was jailed in Birmingham. He wrote this letter on scraps of paper while he waited to be released. It is a challenge to the entire white community to take seriously all of white supremacy that was happening around him in the 1960s.
Read King’s Most Famous Letter
What is at the heart of the civil rights movement?
Whether you’re interested in an upcoming trip, want to create a custom experience, or are curious about past journeys, there’s a place for you in IN OUR HANDS.
Find the Right Trip for You
Your donation helps us create impactful service and learning experiences, making a difference in communities around the world. Every contribution supports meaningful connections, education, and hands-on service opportunities. Thank you for being part of our mission!
