How will you serve?

BVS places year-long volunteers with non-profit organizations, across the US and abroad, who are serving those in need and making the world a better place.

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Goals

Advocating
Justice

  • Providing reliable legal services for immigrants
  • Practicing and teaching restorative justice
  • Supporting conscientious objectors
  • Speaking up on behalf of those who have been and continue to be systematically oppressed

Working for
Peace

  • Lobbying congress
  • Practicing meditation
  • Teaching nonviolent conflict transformation
  • Working with organizations committed to rebuilding relationships and making peace
  • Serving communities torn apart by war and violence

Serving
Human Need

  • Providing hospitality for families of people in prison
  • Serving in local soup kitchens and homeless centers
  • Building houses for those without shelter
  • Walking in solidarity with sisters and brothers living with mental illness

Caring for
Creation

  • Living lightly on the earth
  • Consuming less and re-using more
  • Serving with organizations dedicated to:
    • Reducing pollution
    • Fighting climate change
    • Introducing responsible agricultural practices
    • Planting trees

Who Can Serve?

Anyone over the age of 18 can apply!

Are you seeking to make a difference in the world while gaining practical professional experience, meeting new people, learning about different cultures, and experiencing personal growth? BVS is for you!

Adults of all ages who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the community through service, social justice, and peace are invited to volunteer with BVS. BVS empowers individuals to use their unique talents and skills to build a better world and is open to all who are willing to serve. Apply now!

Benefits

Room & Board

Medical Insurance

Monthly Stipend

Transportation

Orientation Dates

BVS orientation is designed to prepare and strengthen volunteers for a life of service in BVS and beyond. Orientation is required and is the start of your time as a volunteer in BVS – the application process must be completed six weeks before the start date of your preferred orientation unit.

Summer 2024 #335

July 28 – August 5
Location: Camp Colorado in Sedalia, CO

Fall 2024 #336

September 17 – 25
Location: Camp Brethren Heights in Rodney, MI

Apply now

BVS updates

  • FaithX trip for older adults held at Camp Ithiel in February

    Older adult FaithX participants had a wonderful week at Camp Ithiel in Gotha, Fla., where they spent time together in service, fellowship, and worship. A variety of volunteer projects were completed under the guidance of camp director Mike Neff, including removal of invasive plants, trimming of overgrown forest, kitchen help, cleaning, window washing, and painting.

  • Remembering Don Murray

    Don Murray (94), an actor, director, and producer, and a former Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) worker, died Feb. 2 at his home near Santa Barbara, Calif. He served in BVS from 1953 to 1955, during which time he joined the Church of the Brethren. Just a few years before he was nominated for an Oscar for best supporting actor in his film debut, 1956’s Bus Stop with Marilyn Monroe, Murray served in post-war Europe with BVS.

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