Frequently Asked Questions
Who can serve with JVC?
JVC invites young changemakers (21-25) with a passion for social justice. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds—regardless of culture, gender, or economic status. Volunteers must be U.S. permanent residents, unmarried with no dependents, and have a college degree or relevant work experience.
Curious to learn more about the process to become a Jesuit Volunteer? Click here.
Where do volunteers serve?
Jesuit Volunteers serve in 19 cities across the U.S., working alongside over 100 partner agencies including nonprofits, schools, and grassroots organizations.
I’m interested, but not sure if JVC is the right fit for me.
Committing to a year of service is a counter-cultural choice and we know that raises a lot of questions! Will my spiritual background feel at home with this community? How will this help me take the next steps in my career? What if I’m still figuring out how I want to live into these beliefs?
We promise you’re not the first to have these questions and we’re here to find some of those answers together. Click here to read more FAQs, including some of the most frequent hesitations we encounter.
Volunteering sounds great, but what is a Jesuit?
The “J” in JVC references the Society of Jesus, an order of Catholic priests and brothers more commonly known as Jesuits, who embrace the challenge of living as “contemplatives in action.” Our formation program draws inspiration and direction from the Jesuit order as we pursue balance between spiritual reflection and the work for justice.
Click here to learn more about the Jesuits – and how spirituality guides the JVC experience.
What kind of support is available once the year starts?
Every JV community will have access to a local support team in their city of service, comprised of a staff member, alumni, and a spiritual adviser. This support team addresses health and safety issues, logistical hurdles, and other challenges if they arise. They also facilitate the JV experience through ongoing reflections, in-city retreats, and coordination between the volunteer and their agency placement.
What finances are JVs responsible for? What does JVC cover?
JVC provides for Jesuit Volunteers’ housing, food, a modest monthly personal stipend, health insurance (if unavailable elsewhere), transportation, menstrual products, and a relocation stipend at the end of their term of service. Volunteers are responsible for transportation to orientation.
What kind of support is available after my JV year?
Jesuit Volunteers join a community of over 12,500 alumni committed to faith in action. Former Jesuit Volunteers do amazing things: they serve the public interest as members of Congress, found and lead organizations at the forefront of social change, heal bodies and minds as medical professionals, advocate for justice as lawyers and judges, and continue to work with the marginalized.
Graduate School Partnerships
JVC partners with universities across the country to offer scholarships and discounted tuition for alumni pursuing graduate level education, from Master’s programs to law and medical degrees. Click here for all opportunities available to Former Jesuit Volunteers.
A Lifelong Community
One of the greatest benefits of becoming a Jesuit Volunteer is our expansive network of current and former volunteers, supporters, and partner agencies. With Former Jesuit Volunteer chapters across the country, FJVs have the opportunity to connect and network with likeminded individuals regardless of where they live. FJVs connect virtually and in-person, join and initiate ongoing formation and social events, and support each other professionally and personally.
Have more questions?
Speak with a JVC Team Member
We're here to support you as you figure out if JVC is the right choice! Our process is built around relationships and mutual discernment. Connect with us and we can talk through any questions or concerns you have.
Talk to a Team Member
Casey Driscoll
(FJV: Baltimore, MD 2022-23)