Jesuit Volunteer Corps

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Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) is an organization dedicated to the service of others, particularly those in need, through the framework of Ignatian spirituality. It encourages young people to work with poor and marginalized communities, promoting social justice in a variety of fields such as education, public health, and environmental justice. The JVC operates both within the United States and internationally, offering opportunities for volunteers to live in community with one another while engaging in service.

History

The Jesuit Volunteer Corps was founded in the late 1950s when a group of students from the University of Gonzaga in Spokane, Washington, led by the Jesuit priest Jack Morris, began volunteering at the Copper Valley School in Alaska. The success and impact of this initial project led to the formal establishment of the JVC. Over the decades, the organization has grown significantly, expanding its reach to various parts of the globe and diversifying the types of service projects it supports.

Mission and Values

The core mission of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps is rooted in the Catholic tradition and the spiritual exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). Volunteers are encouraged to embody the values of spirituality, community, simple living, and social justice in their daily lives and work. The JVC aims to foster personal growth and a deeper understanding of one's role in creating a more just and hopeful world.

Programs

JVC offers several programs tailored to different needs and interests. These include:

• Domestic Programs: Volunteers serve in various cities across the United States, working in sectors such as education, healthcare, and environmental advocacy.
• International Programs: These programs send volunteers to work in countries around the world, often in collaboration with local Jesuit missions and organizations.
• JVC Northwest: A region-specific branch of the JVC that operates in the Pacific Northwest, offering unique opportunities for service and community engagement in that area.

Volunteer Experience

Volunteers, often recent college graduates, commit to one or two years of service, during which they live in community houses with other volunteers. This communal living aspect is designed to support the personal and spiritual growth of the volunteers through shared experiences, reflections, and responsibilities. The JVC provides training, support, and retreats to help volunteers navigate their service and community living.

Impact

The Jesuit Volunteer Corps has made a significant impact on both the communities it serves and the volunteers who join its ranks. Many alumni go on to careers in public service, education, and advocacy, carrying forward the values and experiences they gained during their time with the JVC. The organization's emphasis on social justice and community engagement has contributed to various social change initiatives and fostered a network of individuals committed to service.

See Also

• Catholic Church
• Volunteerism
• Social Justice
• Ignatian Spirituality

Jesuit Volunteer Corps Resources
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