Volunteer Ministries
For over 50 years, Volunteer Ministries has provided opportunities for people to share their gifts of service and witness to others. Through the act of foot washing, Jesus makes clear God’s call to serve others. We are invited to ministries of service that reflect God’s love by responding to the needs of the world and involving ourselves in efforts to challenge injustices. The logo of the towel and basin remind us of God’s call to serve.
This Partners in Service listing provides a wide variety of opportunities for people to engage in meaningful service, in cooperation with local churches, Conferences and host agencies. The philosophy undergirding Volunteer Ministries is that all God’s people have been given gifts and that through our baptism we are called to offer these gifts in the service of others. Read on to learn how you may offer your gifts through Partners in Service. . .
Full-Time Placements throughout the United States
for Adults of All Ages
700 Prospect Avenue East
Cleveland, OH 44115-1100
www.ucc.org/volunteer
866.822.8224 ext. 3214 or ext. 3216
Apply Online- Apply Here
CONTENTS
Contact Information
Partners in Service Program Description
Three-Way Partnership Agreement
General Information
Application Procedure
Sample of Agency Description
Index by Type of Ministry
Host Agency Listing (By State)
Additional Volunteer Opportunities
Resources
Index of Host Agencies (Alphabetical)
For Additional Information, Please Contact:
Mary Schaller Blaufuss
Executive for Volunteer Ministries
Phone: (216) 736-3214
Toll-free (866) 822-8224, ext. 3214
E-mail: blaufusm@ucc.org
Diane Dicken
Administrative Assistant for Program
Phone: (216) 736-3216
Toll-Free (866) 822-8224 ext. 3216
E-mail: dickend@ucc.org
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Volunteer Ministries is part of Wider Church Ministries.Wider Church Ministries of the United Church of Christ works with Conferences and local congregations to develop relationships with partners throughout the global church. As companions with many partners nationally and internationally, we seek to lift up needs in our world and unite in a common mission of service. www.ucc.org/wcm
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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Opportunities for Service
The Partners in Service program offered through the Volunteer Ministries Office of the United Church of Christ, provides a variety of opportunities for service in diverse
settings as described in the following pages. Volunteers serve terms of two weeks to a year or more.
Who Volunteers?
Partners In Service is open to adults of all ages, skilled and unskilled, who are eager to serve, and have a willingness to learn and, at the same time, wish to gain a better
understanding of themselves. Though there are minimum age requirements, there is no upper age limit. Young and older adults are equally encouraged to participate. Partners in
Service does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of religion, race, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, or disabilities. International volunteers are placed upon the recommendation of partners in the Ecumenical Diaconal Year Network and recognized church partners of the United Church of Christ.
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THREE WAY PARTNERSHIP
Partners In Service reflects an intentional partnership among the volunteer, the hosting agency (project) and the Volunteer Ministries Office. Each party covenants with the others to share of themselves and offer their particular gifts and resources to one another to serve God’s people in need. Expectations of the parties involved in a successful
placement are listed below. These expectations are based on a one-year term of service. Those provisions that do not apply or are negotiable for shorter terms are marked with an
asterisk (*).
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Volunteer Ministries Office
■ Recruits, processes applications, and assigns each candidate to an acceptable service arrangement. Processing consists of gathering references on each candidate, sorting out likely projects according to the candidate’s description of interest, and entering into an agreement with a host agency.
■ Arranges contact between agency and candidate so that both are satisfied and can make arrangements for service.
■ Prepares visa requests and provides sponsorship for international volunteers.
■ Contracts for background checks for U.S. volunteers (international volunteers must bring with them written evidence of criminal background check)
■ Arranges for limited illness and accident insurance coverage during the service period under the Volunteer Ministries policy, if personal and/or agency insurance is not available.
■ Maintains contact with volunteer and the hosting agency.
■ Arranges for an annual gathering of volunteers serving terms of 9 months or longer. Pays for lodging, food and program for this gathering.
■Arranges for the termination of volunteer’s service at the end of service period or at an earlier date if circumstances demand such action.
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Volunteer
■ Offers skills, talents, and a willingness to be in service with others.
■ Provides personal wardrobe.
■ Assumes cost of any medical, optical, or dental treatment not covered by or going beyond the limits of insurance coverage.
■ Pays for any personal trips or vacations during the service period.
■ Pays for their entire round-trip travel costs to and from the host agency at the beginning and ending of service.
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Hosting Agency (Support varies at some agencies)
■ Provides orientation, training, and supportive guidance to volunteer.
■ Is responsible for the volunteer during the period under its supervision in regard to working hours, days off, and vacation time in accordance with the agency’s policies.*
■ Provides the volunteer with room and board during the service period.
■ Provides special uniforms or clothes, if these are required.
■ Provides for needed on-the-job transportation, including transportation to and from service site if volunteer is housed elsewhere.
■ Pays the premium of illness and accident insurance for the period of service. (Volunteer Ministries has access to a short term limited illness and accident policy. This insurance is mandatory, unless adequate insurance coverage is provided by the agency or volunteer.)
■ Provides the volunteer with a monthly stipend of at least $100 per month for incidentals while in service.*
■ Remains aware of the volunteer’s need for social activity. (Since volunteers are not in their own communities in most cases, it is requested that available social activities be shared with them.)
■ Provides the transportation cost, or contributes a minimum of $300 for the volunteer to attend the Volunteer Retreat. (Retreats are held one weekend during the year for volunteers serving 9 month-1 year placements. Attendance is considered an integral part of the volunteer experience.)*
General Items of Importance
It is to be understood by all concerned that placement is full-time, approximately 40 hours per week. Any exceptions should be decided by the parties concerned. Volunteer service schedules often vary from week to week and may include evening and weekend hours. Premature termination is possible, when necessary, and can be initiated with the Volunteer Ministries program by the volunteer, the host agency, or both. If an unsatisfactory placement has been made, a reassignment may be pursued.
Financial Assistance
Some Conferences and local churches in which UCC Volunteers reside have financial aid programs to assist volunteers. Volunteers should make inquiries of Conferences and churches to ascertain if financial aid is available.
Loan Deferment & AmeriCorps Education Awards
In some situations, student loans may be deferred for a period of up to three years while the recipient is engaged in service. In certain placement sites and within the parameters of the AmeriCorps program, AmeriCorps Education Awards may be available for eligible students.
Sabbatical Opportunities
Many hosting agencies welcome persons who are pursuing sabbatical experiences. The code “SB” following the agency description indicates that sabbatical opportunities are available. Sabbatical placements include time for study and reflection.
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APPLICATION PROCEDURE
■ Request an Application Packet from the Volunteer Ministries Office. Log on to the United Church of Christ’s website at <www.ucc.org/volunteer> for more information, a current Partners In Service listing and application form.
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■ All applicants must complete an application, provide references, and be screened according to UCC guidelines to protect against sexual misconduct.
■ A telephone interview with the Executive for Volunteer Ministries is conducted after the application deadline and once the application and references are complete.
■ Additional information on projects of interest is shared to assist the volunteer in discerning an appropriate placement.
■ The project of the applicant’s preference is contacted to determine if a placement may be arranged. Although an applicant requests a particular project, the project makes the final decision as to whether or not the applicant will beinvited.
*Some projects request that the applicant complete a site-specific application.
■ If the requested project has a potential placement, a telephone call is arranged between the applicant and project director.
■ All details concerning service, expectations, and benefits are negotiated prior to the beginning of service by the applicant, host agency, and Volunteer Ministries. Written confirmation is provided by Volunteer Ministries office.
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APPLICATION DEADLINES
References Due Placement Start
Type of Service
Application & References Due
Placement Start
LT = Long-Term
(9-12 months)
May 1
September 1
September
January
S = Summer (May/June-August/September
April 1
Late May/Early June
ST = Short-Term
( 2-8 months)
SB = Sabbatical
W = Weekly
(2-6 weeks)
Three months prior to desired starting date
Year-round
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SAMPLE OF AGENCY DESCRIPTION
Plymouth House of Healing (Seattle) is a transitional home located on North Beacon Hill. Volunteer resident companions spend a year living in community with formerly homeless people who struggle with mental illness. Being a companion here is an opportunity to provide friendship and support.(http://www.plyhc.org) 21+ LT
Project: Plymouth House of Healing
Location: (Seattle)
Mission: Transitional home located on North Beacon Hill. Volunteer resident companions spend a year living in community with formerly homeless people who struggle with mental illness.
Volunteer Opportunity: Being a companion here is an opportunity to provide friendship and support.
Age: 21+ (21 years and older)
Term of Service: LT =Long-Term 9–12 months
ST =Short-Term 2–8 months
S =Summer between May–August
W =Weekly 1–6 weeks
SB =Sabbatical time of year and term length for service and study negotiable
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DIVERSE MINISTRIES
Camp and Conference Settings
Pilgrim Pines, CA
Silver Lake Camp and Conference Center, CT
Lani Kamaha’o, HI
N-Sid-Sen, ID
DuBois Center, IL
Merom Conference Center, IN
Pilgrim Heights Camp and Conference Center, IA
New Windsor Conference Center, MD
Shannondale, MO
Camp Mimanagish, MT
Deering Center, NH
Geneva Point Center, NH
Horton Center, NH
Dunkirk Conference Center, NY
Blowing Rock, NC
Ohio Conference Camps, OH
Hartman Center, PA
Living Waters Outdoor Ministry, PA
Mensch Mill Camp and Conference Center, PA
Slumber Falls, TX
United Church Camps, WI
Children/Youth
Agelink & Beautitudes Center D.O.A.R., AZ
Charles Hall Youth Services, ND
Evangelical Children’s Home, MO
Bethany Children’s Home, PA
Prospect Congregational UCC, WA
Adults and/or Children with Developmental Disabilities
Camp Courageous, IA
Emmaus Homes, MO
Hope Homes, OH
Innisfree, VA
Direct Service, Anti-Poverty Focus
Habitat for Humanity, CA
Discovering Opportunities for Outreach & Reflection, CA, CO, GA, IL, FL, TX
La Puente Home, Inc., CO
Religious Coalition for Emergency Needs, MD
Back Bay Mission, MS
Epiphany UCC, MO
United Church Neighborhood Houses, MO
Prodigals Community, NC
Church Street Ministries, OH
JOIN: Connecting the Street to a Home, OR
Old First Reformed UCC, PA
Re-Member, SD
Direct Service, Health Care Support
Ryder Memorial Hospital, Puerto Rico
Multi-Faith Works, WA
Christ House, Washington, DC
Direct Service, Rural Ministries
HOMES, KY
LINKS, KY
Open Ground, KY
Appalachian Service Project, TN
Appalachian south Folklife Center, WV
McDowell Mission, WV
Disaster Recovery
Florida Conference UCC, Disaster Ministries
Long-Term Recovery Committee, FL
South Central Conference UCC Disaster Ministries, New Orleans, LA
Back Bay Mission, MS
Emergency Response Disaster Child Care Program
Various locations in U.S. (See Additional Volunteer Opportunities)
Education Ministries
Charles Cook School for Christian Leadership, AZ
Amistad America, CT
Menual School, NM
Interdenominational Theological Center, GA
Justice Advocacy Focus
No More Deaths, AZ
Heifer International, AR, MA
Interfaith Action/Coalition of Immokalee Workers, FL
Interfaith Worker Justice, IL, LA
Brethren Mennonite Council, MN
National Farm Workers, MO, FL, IL, NC, OR
Pineros y Campesinos Unidos de Noroeste, OR
Annunciation House, TX
Casa Proyecto, TX
Appalachian South Folklife Center, WV
South Appalachian Labor School, WV
Living in Intentional Community
Catholic Worker House, CO
Christ House, Washington DC
Discovering Opportunities for Outreach & Reflection, CA, CO, GA, IL, FL, TX
Jubilee Partners, GA
Koinonia Partners, GA
Open Door Community, GA
Westmoreland Volunteer Corps, MD (See Additional Volunteer Opportunities)
Prodigals Community, NC
Annunication House, TX
Mental Illness Ministries
Gould Farm, MA
Hopewell Inn, OH
Plymouth House of Healing, WA
Prospect Congregational UCC, WA
Ministries with Homeless Populations
La Puente, CO
Christ House, Washington DC
Open Door Community, GA
Concerned Citizen’s Mother’s House, IL
JOIN: Connecting the Street to a Home, OR
Older Adults
Agelink & Beautitudes Center D.O.A.R., AZ
United Church Homes and Services, NC
Phoebe Ministries, PA
St. Paul Homes, PA
Uplands, TN
Prison Ministries
New Hope House, GA
Alderson Hospitality House, WV
Prisoner Visitation and Support,
Various locations in U.S. (See Additional Volunteer Opportunities)
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AGENCY LISTING, by State
ALABAMA
No opportunities are currently available at this time.
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ARIZONA
Beatitudes Agelink Intergenerational Child Development Center (Phoenix) supports young families through early education and child care services. The center also enriches the lives of older persons residing at the Beatitudes Campus of Care and in the surrounding neighborhood. Volunteers are needed to serve with infants, toddlers, and preschool children assisting in childcare, classroom, and playground activities. Other volunteers are needed in volunteer development, resource assistant, grant writing, financial development, and nursing. 19+ LT, ST, S, W
Beatitudes Center D.O.A.R. (Phoenix) provides in-home services, support groups, and education to elderly and disabled adults; caregivers of the elderly, grandparents raising grandchildren, and congregations developing health ministries. 25+ ST
Charles Cook School for Christian Leadership (Tempe) founded in 1911 to educate, enable and empower Native Americans for Christian leadership. Students and program participants are from a variety of indigenous nations throughout the U.S. and Canada. Full-time volunteers serve as cooks, housekeepers, maintenance staff, office personnel, public relations and development assistants. http://www.cookleadershipschool.org
25+ LT, ST, S, W, SB
No More Deaths (Tucson) is a coalition of faith-based partners working together to stem the rising numbers of migrant deaths in the Arizona deserts near the U.S.-Mexico border each year. Ark of the Covenant camps maintain a vigilant presence 24 hours/day, 7 days/week during the scorching summer months in order to provide food, water, and medical assistance to persons encountered. NMD is staffed entirely by volunteers from all walks of life and professions. A volunteer is needed to serve as a full-time volunteer for the entire No More Deaths effort of the summer. Year-long volunteers assist the on-going projects along the southern Arizona border. These include working with migrant center in Agua Prieta and Sonora, Mexico, helping with outreach and education within the community and fundraising for No More Deaths. http://www.nomoredeaths.org
21+ LT, ST, S
ARKANSAS
Heifer International Learning Center, Heifer Ranch (Perryville) offers hands-on educational experiences that promote sustainable solutions to global hunger, poverty and environmental degradation. Volunteers may be placed in departments of general education, livestock, horticulture, distribution, sales, maintenance, hosting, receptionist, or greeting. http://www.heifer.org/ranch 18+ LT, ST, S
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CALIFORNIA
Habitat for Humanity (Fresno) builds houses in partnership with low-income families, giving witness to the Christian Gospel by building community through the construction of new houses, renovation of existing structures, and revitalization of neighborhoods. This program is carried out in a community where 40 percent of all households are considered low-income and unemployment is more than triple the national average. Volunteers serve as skilled construction volunteers, general laborers, volunteer coordination assistants, family support coordinators, and outreach coordinators. A full-time volunteer might also serve as an assistant in the ReStore, a retail store that sells construction supplies and materials to raise money for building homes.
http://www.habitatfresno.org 18+ LT, ST, S, W, SB
DOOR (Discovering Opportunities for Outreach and Reflection) Dwell Hollywood (Denver National Office) provides urban service learning opportunities for young adults interested in discerning a call to urban ministry. DOOR Hollywood focuses on the intense disparity of the haves and have nots, and the reality versus the false vision of reality fed to us through our entertainment based culture. Participants serve in their placement agency/ ministry 4 days a week, meet together with volunteer team 1 day a week, 1 day in a self selected local congregation and 1 day off. Volunteers live in community together. This program emerges out of DOOR's partnerships with Mennonite Mission Network and the National Volunteers Office (NVO) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) http://www.doornetwork.org 19-30, LT
Pilgrim Pines Camp & Conference Center (Yucaipa) is committed to Social Justice, Progressive Christianity, Environmental Sustainability and extending an Extravagant Welcome to all. We offer outdoor ministry opportunities for all children, youth and adults, including special programs for those with developmental disabilities. Volunteers serve as counselors, program staff and a variety of other positions. http://www.pilgrimpinescamp.org 21+LT, ST, S, W, SB
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COLORADO
Catholic Worker House (Denver) is a center for hospitality in the inner city. Volunteers live very simply in Christian community and maintain the house of hospitality, including house cooking and cleaning and being present to the guests. Volunteers also work at a neighborhood thrift store and participate in advocacy work with the guests and other activities related to peace and justice. http://www.catholicworker.org 18+ LT, ST, S, SB
DOOR (Discovering Opportunities for Outreach and Reflection) Dwell Denver (Denver National Office) provides urban service learning opportunities for young adults interested in discerning a call to urban ministry. Participants serve in their placement agency/ ministry 4 days a week, meet together with volunteer team 1 day a week, 1 day in a self selected local congregation and 1 day off. Volunteers live in community together. This program emerges out of DOOR's partnerships with Mennonite Mission Network and the National Volunteers Office (NVO) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) http://www.doornetwork.org 19-30, LT
DOOR (Discovering Opportunities for Outreach and Reflection) (Denver National Office) provides urban service learning programs for short-term group mission trips through service, listening, worship and reflection. Summer support positions help facilitate groups as liaison between groups and community agencies, leading worship and helping groups reflect on their experiences. Some volunteer positions include more of an internship placement with a specific service agency. DOOR is part of the Mennonite Mission Network. Sites include Atlanta, GA, Chicago, IL, Denver, CO, Hollywood, CA, Miami, FL and San Antonio, TX. http://www.doornetwork.org 18+ S
La Puente Home (Alamosa) is a nonprofit organization that provides emergency shelter, food services, advocacy, and transitional services for homeless people and community members in crisis. Services are provided to meet immediate needs and to empower people to live independently with dignity. Volunteers serve in the shelter, thrift store, food bank, family assistance program, and provide maintenance and repairs for La Puente’s several facilities. http://www.lapuente.net 18+ LT, ST, S, W
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CONNECTICUT
Amistad America, Inc. (New Haven) is a nonprofit educational organization whose mission is to celebrate and teach the lessons of history, leadership, and cooperation
inherent in the Amistad Incident of 1839 and to further the legacy through the Freedom Schooner Amistad. Volunteers work on board the Amistad vessel as a deck hand, bosun, or docent to interpret the ship and the story. General administrative support, development and fund-raising support, website technical assistance, and general business management support are also needed. http://www.amistadamerica.org 18+ LT, ST, S, SB
SILVER LAKE CAMP AND CONFERENCE CENTER (Sharon) is the outdoor ministries site of the Connecticut Conference, UCC. Volunteers lead summer conferences and winter retreats, serve as leadership for summer camp program. Year-round volunteer may serve with maintenance and grounds keeping or with promotional projects. http://www.silverlake.ctucc.org 18+ LT, ST, S, SB
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DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Christ House (Washington) is a residential medical facility for homeless men and women who are too sick to be on the street or in shelters but not sick enough to stay in the hospital. Round-the-clock medical care, social services, meals, structured activities, clothing, and a place to recover are provided. Housing is sought for patients upon their discharge. Volunteers serve as staff nurse, nursing assistant, social worker, community builder, generalist and maintenance assistant. http://www.christhouse.org 19+ LT
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FLORIDA
DOOR (Discovering Opportunities for Outreach and Reflection) Dwell Miami (Denver National Office) provides urban service learning opportunities for young adults interested in discerning a call to urban ministry. DOOR Miami focuses on multicultural ministry and service as relates to God’ reign. Participants serve in their placement agency/ ministry 4 days a week, meet together with volunteer team 1 day a week, 1 day in a self selected local congregation and 1 day off. Volunteers live in community together. This program emerges out of DOOR's partnerships with Mennonite Mission Network and the National Volunteers Office (NVO) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) http://www.doornetwork.org 19-30, LT
Florida Conference Disaster Recovery Ministry, UCC (Lake and Sumter Counties) is a ministry of the Florida Conference, UCC. Volunteer sought to serve directly with the Lake and Sumter Emergency Interfaith Long-Term Recovery Committee (LASER). This volunteer will serve as a volunteer coordinator/administrative assistant with the LASER program in central Florida—coordinating short-term volunteer groups, relating to local homeowners, churches and other disaster recovery organizations.
http://www.Laser_florida@yahoo.com 21+ LT, ST, S
Interfaith Action of Southwest Florida/ Coalition of Immokalee Workers (Southwest Florida) is looking for interns to engage their faith by living and working in Immokalee, Florida alongside farmworkers and allies who are working to improve farmworkers’ sub-poverty wages and working conditions in the Campaign for Fair Food. Volunteers work side-by-side with farmworker leaders and engage in faith-based community organizing.
http://www.ciw-online.org & www.allianceforfairfood.org 21+LT, ST, S
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GEORGIA
Interdenominational Theological Center (Atlanta) is a consortium of denominational seminaries whose mission is to educate Christian leaders for ministry and service in the Church and the global community. The ITC is establishing itself as a nationwide resource on the Black Church’s role in the renewal of American society. Volunteer is sought for coordination of marketing communication projects including public relations, special events management, advertising and creating brand awareness.. http://www.itc.edu 25 + LT
DOOR (Discovering Opportunities for Outreach and Reflection) Dwell Atlanta (Denver National Office) provides urban service learning opportunities for young adults interested in discerning a call to urban ministry. DOOR Atlanta focuses on the teaching and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. to work against racism, violence and materialism. Participants serve in their placement agency/ ministry 4 days a week, meet together with volunteer team 1 day a week, 1 day in a self selected local congregation and 1 day off. Volunteers live in community together. This program emerges out of DOOR's partnerships with Mennonite Mission Network and the National Volunteers Office (NVO) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) http://www.doornetwork.org 19-30, LT
Jubilee Partners (Comer) is a residential Christian service community located in rural northeast Georgia, with a primary focus of hosting and resettling newly arrived
refugees. Jubilee Partners is also involved in various peacemaking activities and anti-death penalty work. Volunteers teach English and provide childcare for refugees as well as provide cultural information and skills, clean refugee houses between occupants, and do gardening, construction, and maintenance as needed. Volunteers participate in the spiritual life of the community which attempts to focus on a compassionate lifestyle, trying to be responsible stewards of the resources available to us.
http://www.jubileepartners.org 19+ LT, ST, S, SB
Koinonia Partners (Americus) is an intentional Christian community and farm whose mission is to offer opportunities for spiritual renewal and work for social justice by serving neighbors and participating in peacemaking projects. Volunteers’ days consist of prayer, work, study, service, and fellowship. Common tasks include tending pecan and fruit orchards, bakery work, maintenance and home repair ministry, work with children & elders, office work, and more. http://www.koinoniapartners.org18+ ST , S, W, SB
New Hope House (Barnesville) is an intentional Christian community working for the abolition of the death penalty. Volunteers assist in the running of the hospitality house, visit prisoners, attend trials, and provide support to prisoners’ families. 21+ LT, ST, S, SB
Open Door Community (Atlanta) is a residential Christian community in the Catholic worker tradition (sometimes called a Protestant Catholic Worker House), serving the homeless, poor, and prisoners. Resident volunteers assist with and participate in all activities of the Community, including soup kitchen work, supervision of showers and clothes closet, house cleaning, answering the phone and door, receiving and sorting donations, meal preparation and clean-up. Volunteers participate in the work of the Open Door Community in working for change in our social structures and in ourselves; in practicing hospitality and friendliness. http://www.opendoorcommunity.org
20+ LT, ST, W
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HAWAII
Lani Kamaha’o (rural Oahu) is a rural outdoor ministry site of the UCC Hawaii Conference, providing cooperative living skills and environmental education programs to churches, schools, and community groups of all ages. Volunteers are sought for light maintenance, yard and grounds work, light construction, teaching environmental education, and facilitating low ropes course. Housing is in tents. http://www.hcucc.org/LaniKamahao/tabid/15961/Default.aspx 21+ ST, S, W, SB
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IDAHO
N-Sid-Sen Camp and Conference Center UCC (Harrison) is the outdoor ministries site of Washington-North Idaho Conference of the UCC. It serves local churches, the Conference, other churches, civic and educational groups. Volunteers needed include counselors, camp nurse, chaplain, and maintenance staff. http://www.N-Sid-Sen.org
18+ ST, S, W, SB
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ILLINOIS
Concerned Citizens, Inc. Mother’s House (Chicago) serves a homeless population. Its mission is to enable individuals to reclaim their lives through instruction and program assistance. Volunteer opportunities exist for case management, board development, marketing, organization development, resource development, and volunteer coordination. 19+ LT
DOOR (Discovering Opportunities for Outreach and Reflection) Dwell Chicago & Discern- Spring in Chicago (Denver National Office) provides urban service learning opportunities for young adults interested in discerning a call to urban ministry. Chicago includes 77 unique ethnic neighborhoods and gathers people globally. It embodies in many ways the center of urban ministry thought. Participants serve in their placement agency/ ministry 4 days a week, meet together with volunteer team 1 day a week, 1 day in a self selected local congregation and 1 day off. Volunteers live in community together. This program emerges out of DOOR's partnerships with Mennonite Mission Network and the National Volunteers Office (NVO) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
http://www.doornetwork.org 19-30, LT, S, SB
DuBois Center UCC (DuBois) is the camp and retreat center for the Illinois South Conference serving Sothern Illinois and the Metro St. Louis, MO area, providing summer camp, retreat facilities, and an outdoor education program. Volunteers are sought as summer camp counselors, camp nurse, and outdoor education instructor.
http://www.duboiscenter.org 19+ LT, ST, S, SB
Interfaith Worker Justice (Chicago) is a nonprofit, faith-based organization that calls on our religious values in order to educate, motivate, and organize the religious
community in the U.S. on issues and campaigns that will improve wages, benefits, and working conditions for workers, especially low-wage workers. Volunteers work on community organizing and public relations projects, Department of Labor projects, public policy programs, and website development. http://www.iwj.org 21+ LT, ST
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INDIANA
The Merom Conference Center, UCC (Merom) is owned and operated by the Indiana-Kentucky Conference of the United Church of Christ and serves as host to year-round events such as youth retreats, work camps, school groups and summer camps. Volunteers may serve as kitchen, housekeeping or maintenance staff (year-round) or summer camp lifeguards. http://www.merom.org 19+ LT, ST, S, W, SB
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IOWA
Camp Courageous (Monticello) is a year-round respite care and recreational facility in a camp setting serving children and adults with physical and/or mental disabilities. Volunteers serve in various departments such as nursing, dietary, maintenance, counseling, camp counseling, or as pool lifeguards. http://www.campcourageous.org
18+ LT, ST, S
Pilgrim Heights Camp & Retreat Center, UCC (Montour) offers outdoor ministry and retreat opportunities for children in summer camp programs as well as for people of all ages in an adult and family retreat programs throughout the year. Volunteers serve in one or more of the following ways: building / equipment maintenance and grounds staff; kitchen and housekeeping staff; office assistants and summer camp counselors, nurse, or chaplain . http://www.PilgrimHeights.org 18+, LT, ST, S, W, SB
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KANSAS
No opportunities are currently available at this time.
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KENTUCKY
HOMES (Neon) is dedicated to providing affordable housing to low income families. Long-term volunteers are needed with experience in framing, roofing, plumbing, and sheet rock finishing. http://www.homesneon.com 18+ LT, ST
Low Income Housing Coalition of East Kentucky, Inc. (LINKS) (Prestonsburg) is a community-based organization involved in the new construction of homes and the rehabilitation of existing homes for low income neighbors. Volunteer is sought to work with these projects. http://www.linkshousing.org 18+ LT, ST
Open Ground (Harrodsburg/Springfield) is a proactive, community-building, cultural and expressive education center. Exemplary programs increase social and environmental awareness, and intend to give greater voice and opportunity to individuals of marginalized populations and/or who have special physical, developmental, personal edification, or social needs. A primary volunteer is sought as a director/administrator. Volunteers also are needed for organic gardening, general maintenance, office work, and fund raising/grant writing. http://www.openground.info 18+ LT, ST
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LOUISIANA
Interfaith Worker Justice Center of New Orleans (New Orleans) is a multi-racial worker justice center to improve conditions for workers in rebuilding the city of new Orleans in conjunction with faith communities and organized labor movement. Interns/volunteers work with community organizing and helping low-wage workers understand their rights and options in the workplace. 21+ ST, S
South Central Conference, UCC, Disaster Recovery (New Orleans Association) participates in long term disaster recovery through work with rebuilding efforts. Full-time volunteers facilitate the work of short term disaster recovery work groups through service as on-site construction supervisor. http://www.ucc.org/volunteer/hurricane
21+, LT, ST, S
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MAINE
No opportunities are currently available at this time.
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MARYLAND
New Windsor Conference Center (New Windsor) is owned and administrated by the Church of the Brethren General Board and is known as “a quiet place to get things done.” Volunteers serve as host/hostess to provide Christian hospitality and serve the needs of the conference and retreat guests. http://www.brethren.org/genbd/nwcc 21+ LT, ST
Religious Coalition For Emergency Human Needs (Frederick) manages food banks and assists those with emergency, short-term needs to return to and maintain a state of economic self-sufficiency. Volunteers assist clients, help coordinate special projects, help maintain an up-to-date resource directory, participate in the computerization of office operations, work with local churches, and assist in the recruitment, training, and coordination of the volunteer staff. 18+ LT
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MASSACHUSETTS
Gould Farm (Monterey and Boston) is a therapeutic community for adults with mental illness. Volunteers work directly with those who come for care and live in a community setting. Volunteers provide gardening, forestry, dairy and livestock care, cooking and kitchen responsibilities, reception, marketing, maintenance, recreation and residential support, roadside store and café, community health team, residential client services, administration, child care, and community coordination. http://www.gouldfarm.org
19+ LT
Heifer International, Overlook Farm (Rutland) located on 270 acres in the central part of the state, educates visitors about eliminating hunger and poverty through sustainable agriculture. It is a working farm that markets products from its integrated woodlands, organic garden, and more than a dozen livestock enterprises. Volunteers serve as Visitor Center hosts and education/agricultural volunteers who conduct field trips, perform general housekeeping, lead education sessions, supervise youth groups, help with animal chores, garden work, and general hospitality of the farm. http://www.heifer.org
19+ LT, ST, S, W
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MICHIGAN
No opportunities are currently available at this time.
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MINNESOTA
Brethren Mennonite Council for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Interests (Minneapolis) provides a justice based ministry of community building, education, advocacy and support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Mennonites and Brethren individuals and their families. In addition, the organization challenges the discriminatory practices, policies and attitudes of the broader church community through the offering of resources, education and ongoing dialogue. A volunteer is needed to serve as the Kaleidoscope Coordinator, an outreach program to college aged students and young adults. In addition to coordinator responsibilities, the volunteer will assist with general office duties. (http://www.bmclgbt.org) 21+ LT
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MISSISSIPPI
Back Bay Mission (Biloxi) is a community ministry of the United Church of Christ that operates in the primary program areas of direct services, work camps, social changes, new program development, and mission interpretation. Volunteer opportunities for individuals or couples include volunteer coordination and hospitality, and disaster recovery projects. (http://www.backbaymission.com) 18+ LT, ST, S, SB
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MISSOURI
Emmaus Homes, Inc. (Marthasville) is a private residential facility for adults who are developmentally disabled. Volunteers coordinate and assist with group activities, assist in recreation and residential services, serve as companions to residents, and assist with maintenance projects. (http://www.emmaushomes.org) 18+ LT, ST, SB, W
Epiphany UCC (St. Louis) in cooperation with Joint Neighborhood Ministries, is engaged in numerous community issues and activities. Volunteers committed to urban ministry are requested to serve in community organizing, day care, youth work, food pantry, tutoring, and literacy. 21+ LT, ST, S, SB
Evangelical Children’s Home (St. Louis) is a child-and family-service agency offering residential treatment for abused, abandoned, and neglected children. The program houses 56 children on campus in addition to group homes and off-campus housing. Volunteers are needed to serve on this residential campus as teachers’ assistants and grounds keeping crew. (http://www.newbeginnings-ech.org) 18+ LT
National Farm Worker Ministry (St. Louis) is an interfaith organization whose purpose is to be present with and support farmworkers as they organize for justice, empowerment, and equality. We educate consumers, coordinate boycotts, promote union label products, organize rallies and delegations, arrange visits to farmworker camps and homes, write letters and leaflet, march, and pray. Volunteers are needed to assist in the development of educational materials and worship resources, organize faith-based groups for farmworkers, assist with presentations to local congregations, and help organize vigils, marches, delegations, fasts, demonstrations, and visits to area labor camps. Possible sites include Deland, FL, Chicago, IL, St. Louis, MO, Durham, NC, Woodburn, OR. (http://www.nfwm.org) 21+, LT, ST, S, SB
United Church Neighborhood Houses (St. Louis) is a neighborhood-centered ministry that supports inner-city families by helping children become hopeful, healthy, self-sustaining members of the community. Volunteer works with food pantries and serves as a program assistant for after-school activities and programs including summer camp.(http://www.neighborhoodhouses.org) 21+ LT
Shannondale Community Center (Salem) is a rural community center that also provides outdoor ministry for the Missouri Conference. Volunteers are needed to help
determine how to best serve the needs of the surrounding community, to provide maintenance for the camp, and to help run the craft center. (http://www.mmsucc.org/shannondale/shannondale_cc.asp) 21+ LT, ST, S, W, SB
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MONTANA
Camp Mimanagish (Billings) is a United Church of Christ Camp located in the Gallatin National Forest. The camp seeks volunteers to serve as cooks, maintenance staff, and arts-and-crafts instructors. (http://ww.campmimanagish.org) 18+ S, SB
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NEBRASKA
No opportunities are currently available at this time.
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NEVADA
No opportunities are currently available at this time.
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NEW HAMPSHIRE
The Deering Center (Deering) is a Christian Family Campground and Retreat Center. We offer a peaceful country setting and environment of love, respect, and acceptance, where individuals, families and groups can gather and grow personally and spiritually.A volunteer serves in general administration, answering phones, paperwork, some accounting, also maintenance and fix-it skills, organizations skills, small engine repair. (http://www.thedeeringcenter.org) 19+ ST, S, W, SB
Geneva Point Center (Moultonborough) is an ecumenical camp and conference center located on Lake Winnipesackee, hosting nonprofit and religious groups for retreats,
conferences, and camps. We also run a day camp and overnight resident camp. Volunteers support the program and help with the office, building/grounds maintenance, guest housekeeping, naturalist activities, and ice cream shop. (http://www.genevapoint.org) 19+ ST, S, W, SB
Horton Center (Concord) is a seasonal site for family
retreats, youth events, and camping for youth and adults, and serves as a base camp for a variety of trip/adventure camps. The summer program includes daily worship on Chapel Rock, hiking, rock climbing, caving, arts and crafts, music, dance, field games, swimming, and canoeing. Volunteers serve with campers as cabin leaders, programming staff, support staff, and expedition leaders. (http://www.nhcucc.org) 18+ ST, S, W, SB
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NEW JERSEY
No opportunities are currently available at this time.
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NEW MEXICO
Menaul School (Albuquerque) is a coeducational school for grades 6 through 12 whose mission is to serve Native American, Hispanic, and other students. Menaul School
provides a college-preparatory, faith-based education with emphasis on preparing youth to serve their communities and the world. Volunteers serve as tutors and coaches to students, assist the chaplain, and assist the administrative offices and the maintenance staff. (http://www.menaulschool.com) 21+ LT, ST
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NEW YORK
Dunkirk Conference Center (Dunkirk) is a United Church of Christ camping center which hosts a year-round camping and retreat program for many persons, including those with physical, mental, and learning disabilities. Volunteers serve as directors and co-directors for youth camps and as chaplain . (http://www.dunkirkcc.org) 21+ S, W
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NORTH CAROLINA
Blowing Rock Conference Center (Blowing Rock) is an ecumenical Conference Center affiliated with the Southern Conference of the UCC located near the Blue Ridge
Mountains. It is a popular site year-round for retreats, reunions, special events for all ages, and specializes in the ministry of hospitality. Volunteers assist the office and hosting staff team, the maintenance/set up/housekeeping team/ and program implementation team. (http://www.brccenter.org/) 18+ LT, ST, S, SB
Prodigals Community (Winston-Salem) is an ecumenical Christian community that provides vocational training, accountability and spiritual and emotional structure for
residents with chronic substance abuse problems. The outreach program educates and supports families of addicts and alcoholics. Volunteers assist with transportation and maintenance, work crew leader, administrative support, residence assistant, education aide in tutoring, computer training and teaching specific skills. (http://www.prodigals.org) 19+ LT, ST, S
United Church Homes and Services (UCHS) (Newton, Thomasville & Lake Prince Woods) is a not for profit organization affiliated with the Southern Conference of the United Church of Christ. Three different sites provide continuing care retirement living opportunities Volunteers assist with reception and hospitality office and maintenance projects, serve in the Gift and Thrift Resale Shop, help plan and implement campus activities. (http://www.uchas.org)
18+ LT, ST, S, SB
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NORTH DAKOTA
CHARLES HALL YOUTH SERVICES (Bismarck) Charles Hall Youth Services offers group home foster care to over 100 at-risk teenagers each year, assisting them in making the transition from a troubled adolescence to mature, responsible adulthood. Volunteer serves a house parent and/or with art program. (www.charleshallyouthservices.com) 21+ LT, ST, S
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OHIO
Church Street Ministries (Berea) provides outreach to youth and young adults at-risk, the homeless, the hungry, the elderly, and refugees. Volunteers help in all areas and learn how to replicate
