The Westmoreland Volunteer Corps (WVC) is now accepting applications for a one-year program in the Washington, D.C. area beginning in fall 2008.  Persons of all faiths are welcome to participate. If you are a college senior, with a passion for social justice and an interest in helping others, we encourage you to consider participating in our successful program.  WVC has a 23-year history of changing lives -- of those who volunteer and those who benefit from their involvement. 

The WVC is a one-year domestic volunteer service program sponsored by Westmoreland Congregational United Church of Christ in Bethesda, MD, a few steps from Washington D.C. It offers five young adults, typically recent college graduates, opportunities to work in direct social service through placements with Washington area service agencies.  WVC identifies positions with over 15 participating agencies in Washington, DC, and suburban Maryland and Virginia, providing services such as employment counseling and job search, case worker support, maternal/child health care and other health programs, homeless services and shelters, refuge services, social justice and advocacy, and elderly support. The goals of the participating agencies are matched with the interests, skills, academic training, and career goals of the five volunteers.  These positions provide opportunities for volunteers to explore possible career paths in social service, health care, law, housing, religion and education, and international aid among others. Participating agency profiles are accessible from our website. 

Requirements:

• Minimum age 21, with a college degree or related work experience.
• Willingness to live simply on a limited income, cooperatively in community with 4 other young adults.

Benefits:

• Housing in a 5-person former parsonage in Bethesda, MD near public transportation
• Health insurance, transportation, monthly food allowance, and small personal expense stipend.
• Placement process that matches applicant's interests and skills with available positions.
• Simple living in a community grounded in service along with others so committed.
• Professional community counselor who meets weekly with volunteers.
• Welcoming church home with supportive board members who serve as mentors.
• Periodic retreats for reflection and evaluation.

WVC volunteers may qualify for AmeriCorps grants and deferred payments for college loans. For more information please visit our website at www.westmorelanducc.org. Applications are currently being accepted for the 2008/9 program that begins Labor  Day weekend, 2008.