Frequently Asked Questions
When did Jesuit Volunteers (JV) start serving in the Northwest?
The Northwest is the birthplace of Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC). The organization was established in 1956 when volunteers began working with Native Alaskan peoples at the Copper Valley School in Alaska.
Where do JVC Northwest volunteers serve?
JVC Northwest volunteers serve people in need in 19 communities in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington, in rural and urban areas. JVs serving in the Northwest have the unique opportunity to explore the incredible natural beauty and rich cultural diversity of the Pacific Northwest!
These cities include:
- Alaska - Anchorage, Bethel, Juneau and Sitka
- Idaho - Boise
- Montana - Ashland, Billings, Hays and Missoula
- Oregon - Gresham and Portland
- Washington - Omak, Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma and Yakima
How many volunteers have served in JVC since its inception?
More than 12,000 current and former JVs have completed at least one year of service in the Corps. More than 6,000 JVs have served in the Northwest.
Where is JVC Northwest based?
The JVC Northwest office is located in Portland, Oregon, and serves the entire Northwest.
What makes JVC Northwest a unique service opportunity?
The JVC Northwest experience is distinctive from other service programs because of the faith dimension. The JV program is rooted in the Ignatian tradition, where volunteers are asked to take time to reflect upon their actions. All aspects of the program are influenced by the tradition and practice of the Society of Jesus. JVs come from a variety of faith backgrounds and commit to sharing their traditions connected by the common bond of service. Another unique aspect of the program is the quality support that is provided by the JVC Northwest staff and JV community.
From the moment you become a JV, you are linked to the largest network of former volunteers serving in a faith-based program. Many JVs develop relationships with like-minded individuals that last a lifetime!
What types of service can I do through JVC Northwest?
JVC Northwest addresses a variety of social and environmental issues through its volunteer placements, including: community organization and advocacy, children's services, services for people with disabilities, education, environmental concerns, health care and education, legal services, mental health, parenting services, pastoral ministry, refugee and immigration services, senior services, social services and community centers, substance abuse programs, women's shelters and programs, and youth work. Additionally, JVs work with Native American, Native Alaskan and Spanish-speaking communities.
Where would I live if I joined JVC Northwest?
JVs live with four to eight other JVs in the communities in which they work. You will become a part of the community you serve to be able to better connect with members of the populations you are assisting.
What is the Ignatian Tradition and why is it important to JVC Northwest?
JVC was founded in the charism of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits). The founder of the Jesuits is St. Ignatius of Loyola, whose spirituality -- or way of living out his faith in God - invites us to become more deeply aware of our experiences in every day life, discovering the Divine in all things. JVs are given opportunities to learn and share elements of Ignatian Spirituality during retreats, community gatherings and optional spiritual direction sessions. As founders and supporters of JVC, the Jesuits provide support and act as resources to many JV communities.
How long do JVs usually volunteer and when would my placement begin?
JVC Northwest service placements are assigned annually. You serve in your appointed community for one year, beginning in early August and ending the following August with the option to continue service for additional years.
Do I get time off during the year?
JVs receive vacation time based on the policies established at the agency they serve. Usually, JVs receive two weeks of vacation per year.
How do I pay for my college loans while I am serving?
As a JV, you may qualify for college loan deferment or forbearance. Check with your lending institution to determine if you qualify and what steps need to be taken to make this possible. Please contact the JVC Northwest office if your lender needs service verification. JVs also have the opportunity -- pending government funding -- to receive a full or part-tim AmeriCorps Education Award, which could assist with educational loans upon the completion of the service year.
Do JVs qualify to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award?
JVs in the 2009 to 2010 service year will qualify for an AmeriCorps Education Award, pending government funding, to pay off college loans or put toward further schooling. This could be a partial or full-time award.
