Health and Wellness
Health Insurance
Jesuit Volunteers serving in the Domestic program are provided medical, prescription, and dental insurance via Christian Brothers Employee Benefit Trust. Coverage under this plan begins September 1 of the JV year and runs through the last day of the final month of the JV's service. Vision (i.e. contact lenses, glasses, etc.) is not covered under this plan, so incoming JVs are encouraged to take care of these before entrance into JVC.
Jesuit Volunteers serving in the International program are provided basic medical coverage, up to $1000 in prescriptions and emergency medevac insurance via HTH WorldWide Insurance. Coverage under this plan begins on the first day of the first month the JV begins to serve internationally. Dental and vision is not covered. In each of the countries JVs serve in, there is at least one HTH recognized clinic, doctor, or hospital within reasonable distance.
Mental Health
The demands of the JVC program can be taxing at times. For this reason, the staff encourages JVs to be as open as they feel comfortable with their needs and concerns throughout the year. We make a priority to provide encouragement, advice, and resources on methods of self-care and stress management to JVs throughout the year. Formal and Informal support is also available from local support people and in-country coordinators.
Domestic JVs will be provided with contact information for mental health liasions in their local communities. In the event that a JV becomes overwhelmed and counseling is deemed necessary, he or she is encouraged to seek professional help through our mental health contacts and the Christian Brothers network of mental health providers.
Safety
Safety is a top priority in decision-making when JVC staff determines the suitability of a work placement or a living situation. JVs generally live and work in low-income neighborhoods, which vary significantly from rural to urban environments. It is often common for JVs to use public transportation to get to and from work. All JVs are encouraged to use common sense, take necessary precautions, and be aware of their surroundings.
