Jesuit Volunteer Stories

volunteer stories, education

"Now, probably more than ever, organizations are relying on Jesuit Volunteers. Of course, there are some JVs that are still going into work. Those of us who work at schools are not, but are working tirelessly to continue to communicate with students, families, and co-workers, and we are having to be creative in our approaches."

volunteer stories

"My community has become a fellowship potent in the fight for justice and a hopeful model for living in relationship with others. More than anything I’ve accomplished as a Jesuit Volunteer, I’m proud of what my community has become."

simple living, volunteer stories

"“Playing poor” seems to minimize the challenges of poverty and dilute simple living into a show, where I “play” a certain part. Articulating the difference between intentional simple living and “playing poor” as a yearlong volunteer proved incredibly challenging."

domestic service, volunteer stories

"Embarking on a yearlong journey that was completely new, there were naturally many uncertainties as we began. One of the only things that it felt like I knew as this year of service began was that it would not come again. No matter what it held -- highs and lows, growth and challenges -- it was all unique to this JV experience."

domestic service, social justice, volunteer stories

"While IFTJ taught me endless lessons, brought me closer to my fellow JV’s, allowed me space to rekindle old friendships, and gave me hope—it also reminded me of the importance of knowing why you do the things you do. My JVC experience is a reminder of the fire that has been lit within our souls to fight for a better world. "