Good news from Minneappolis
Reprinted from Presbyterians Today
One of the most frequently asked questions in the church is, “Why can’t we have good news?
One powerful example of the Good News coming out of Minneapolis has just been shared with me by the Rev. Christine Chakoian, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Lake Forest, Illinois, a commissioner who served as a member of the General Assembly Committee on Mission Coordination.
What is the YAV experience?
Being a Young Adult Volunteer means living a year you’ll never forget. What do YAVs do? Typically, they participate in the following:
- They serve for one year in communities of need in the United States and around the world.
- They meet regularly for prayer and Bible study.
- They work with mentors to explore and grow in their expression of their Christian faith.
- They build each other up as Disciples of Jesus Christ.
- They are supported in their faith journey through orientation and an end-of-term debriefing event.
Do you have more questions?
Explore our Frequently Asked Questions to discover more about the YAV program
Ginna Irby leads a kindergarten class in song. Photo by Essie Buxton
How old are YAVs?
The Young Adult Volunteer Program offers exciting opportunities in Christian service for young adults ages 19 to 30.
How do I find out where I serve?
Candidates who are considering placements outside of the United States may attend the Placement Event to help them discern where they will serve. Candidates who are considering sites within the United States experience the discernment process over the phone.
Is there much competition?
Some sites have more placements than others. Usually every candidate is placed. Occasionally a decision is made at the Placement Event that a candidate may decide to postpone serving as a YAV until a later time.
Where will I stay while I’m a YAV?
Each site is different. Some YAVs stay in a house all year with other YAVs. Some live with families. Some live independently. See the site descriptions for more details.
What about insurance?
Health insurance is offered to YAVs. Details are explained during the application process and at the orientation.
Can I defer my student loans?
Yes, we will help you fill out the necessary forms to defer your student loans.
Can I be considered for more than one site?
Yes. Please let your specific interests be known during the application and interview process.
YAV Stephen Speakman working with Church World Service in Nairobi, Kenya. Photo by Shannon Langley
Can I be considered for sites both in and outside of the United States?
Yes. Please let your specific interests be known during the application and interview process.
What is the interview process like?
After applying for the YAV Program you will receive an initial phone call from someone on the YAV staff. A series of phone conversations will be set up that are designed to help the inquirer to discern participation and site placement within the YAV program.
What does it cost?
The PC(USA) and YAV office pay for a portion of each YAV cost, usually between a third and a half of the total expense. YAVs are asked to raise the remainder of the cost. This can be between the amounts of $2,500 and $7,500 for YAVs serving in the U.S., and $8,000 for YAVs serving internationally. Find out more about raising support to become a YAV.
More questions? Feel free to call the YAV office at (888) 728-7228, x5300.
What are the phases of the YAV Program?
Find out more about the various stages of becoming a Young Adult Volunteer and and living the YAV life.
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Comments
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Hi Dr. Bryant--thanks for your post! You are the first person who put a PC(USA) mission brochure in my hands, leading me to serve as Global Intern for the summer and then to apply for long term service with the PC(USA). So you are the reason that I work with YAV! Thanks so much for your important work. Go Blue Hose!
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Hey, Essie! I was just checking on mission opportunities for PC students and was delighted to see your post AND your position on the national staff. Just want you to know that all of us here at Presbyterian College are appreciative of your leadership and continued service to the church and world. Go Blue Hose!
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Justin--Happy Belated Birthday! The minimum age of 19 is not firm, and we have admitted 18 year-olds into the program in the past. Your site options will be limited to those in the U.S.--international sites require their YAVs to be 21 or older, or have a college degree. I encourage you to read about national sites and apply to the program for this year if you are interested in service in 2011-12. Thanks!
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I am 18 years old as of 01/26/11. Is the minimum age of 19 a firm minimum age? Would I be eligible to serve, if I turn 19 during my year of service, i.e., on 01/26/12? Thank you. I am interested in serving in Kenya, if possible. My father is a Presbyterian Minister with many strong contacts in Kenya. Thank you.