Discover Service Projects History

Discovery Service Projects is comprised of volunteers from many faith who work along with local people in developing countries and in the US. These workers have built churches, clinics, community buildings, schools, and homes. Life has been enriched for individuals, families, and communities everywhere our volunteers have worked.

Discovery Service Projects is an organization that developed from the vision of Rev. Rowland and Barbara Carlson and their willingness to follow God’s leadership. When Rowland retired, they made a trip to Kenya to work at a mission that was supported by their families. Upon their return, Rowland and Barbara realized the need for similar mission work in the not-so-distant countries of Central America and in Mexico.

Rowland and Barbara joined with Rolling Hills United Methodist Church to form Discovery Service Projects as a mission outreach of that church. Rowland and Barbara went on to lead DSP in the selection of projects and the facilitation of those projects. Word of their generous work, and the fellowship involved spread.

Domestic Projects
In 1994, Rowland and Barbara recognized the greater need for support in the United States. They led groups to South Carolina, where homes in North Charleston affected by hurricane damage were repaired. These trips were made in April or May of each year. DSP workers have traveled to Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, etc., responding to the need for repairs from hurricane disasters.

Discovery Service Projects celebrated its 32 nd anniversary in 2019! Through the years, over 900 volunteers have continued the work of service that was begun by Rowland and Barbara Carlson. Many others have contributed to the cost of construction materials for each year’s project.