volunteers - program description
Be transformed by the call to peace and justice!
Over the past 50 years, more than 12,000 men and women from across the United States have worked full time as Jesuit Volunteers (JVs) in placements serving those marginalized in our society, including people who experience poverty, hunger, disabilities and abuse. JVs work for organizations dedicated to social and environmental justice and advocacy throughout the Northwest.
JVs live in community with other JVs for at least one year and are surrounded by the beautiful and diverse landscape of the Northwest. JVs commit to integrating the four foundational values of community, simple living, social justice and spirituality into their everyday lives.
The JV experience raises their consciousness of poverty, oppression and injustice, and moves the volunteers into solidarity with the people they serve.
The JV experience is challenging on emotional, intellectual and spiritual levels and is often referred to by former JVs as one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives.
Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) Northwest invites you to be transformed by:
- Unique cross-cultural encounters
- Creative sprituality
- Social and ecological justice
- Global sustainability practices
How is JVC Northwest different from other service programs?
JVC Northwest is distinct from other service programs -- such as the Peace Corps -- because of the faith dimension. The JVC program is rooted in the Ignatian tradition of faith-directed service. JVC was initiated by the Jesuits, who continue to support and be an integral part of the on-going success of the program. JVs come from a variety of faith backgrounds and commit to sharing their traditions while finding common ground through service and the mission.
From the moment you become a JV, you are linked to the largest network of former volunteers serving in a faith-based program. The quality of support and involvement from former JVs is unrivaled by other programs. Many JVs gain relationships with like-minded individuals that last a lifetime!
Where will I live?
JVs serving in the Northwest have the unique opportunity to explore the incredible natural beauty and rich cultural diversity of the Pacific Northwest! JV communities are found in the following cities:
- Alaska - Anchorage, Bethel, Juneau and Sitka
- Montana - Ashland, Billings and Hays
- Oregon - Portland
- Washington - Omak, Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma and Yakima
Living Simply
JVC Northwest encourages volunteers to experience simple living. As an example, many JV communities have a television, but choose to limit the amount of time that it is turned on. For some, this is a new concept that can be challenging and rewarding. JVs may bring musical instruments, bikes and other personal items, but are asked to limit the number of possessions they bring to allow for a new outlook on the community and world around them. Simple living also allows JVs to more fully connect with the communities in which they live and work.
What service opportunities exist in the Northwest?
The Northwest needs eager and open-minded individuals to work among the following peoples:
- Native Americans and Native Alaskans facing the economic, cultural and health crises that are the result of decades of colonialism.
- Rural Latino families seeking medical and legal assistance.
- Children, women and men in small and large cities experiencing homelessness, addiction, poverty and mental illness.
- JVC Northwest is also expanding opportunities for JVs to work for ecological sustainability.
To see specific placement descriptions, visit the Service Programs page.
Well-supported Service
JVs are well supported by JVC Northwest staff, based out of Portland, Ore. Each volunteer receives individual support from an area director, who conducts a site visit with each community two times during the year and provides ongoing support throughout the JV experience. Designated support people, typically former JVs and members of the Jesuit community, are also present on a local level for the JV communities. There are three retreats offered throughout the year during which JVs from several communities gather to reflect, pray and connect in their shared experience.
