Want to put your faith in action?
Want to grow as a leader in Christian service?
Want to see the world while serving God and those in need?
The YAV Program might be just for you…
a year of service for a lifetime of change
The Young Adult Volunteer program is a one year service opportunity for young adults from 19 to 30 years. YAVs live together in Christian community, deepening and developing their faith while serving in communities of need. The YAV program has sites around the United States and around the world, and YAVs serve for one academic year, August – July.
Volunteers are placed in community agencies or local churches, with jobs depending on the needs of partners and the skills of the Young Adult Volunteer. YAVs tackle some of the hardest problems in the world – poverty, violence and reconciliation, and sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ – while living and reflecting with other volunteers on the meaning and motivation of their Christian faith.
Each YAV experience is different – but all YAVs will participate in a mutual discernment process to be a part of the program, receive national and on-site orientation, work closely with mentors and companions during service, participate in vocational discernment activities, and integrate the whole experience at a end-of-term conference. All YAVs receive health insurance and student loan repayment is available for qualified applicants. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), you and your supporting congregation and presbytery, and some placement agencies share funding of this program. All volunteers are required to raise some of their financial support – this year the requirements for fundraising have been cut in half – to $3,000 for national service and $4,000 for international service. A limited number of scholarships are also available each year.
For more information, see the Presbyterian Mission Agency website.