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.
WHO:
BVSers want to serve and make a positive difference in our world. We want to live with purpose and seek out experiences that will allow us to learn, grow, and explore. Ages 18+. Learn more here.
WHAT:
BVS is a volunteer agency formed by young adults in the Church of the Brethren as a way to put their beliefs into action. Learn more here.
WHERE:
BVSers serve across the United States and abroad with non-profits committed to advocating justice, serving human need, caring for creation, and working for peace. BVS staff collaborate with each volunteer to select a volunteer location that fits!
WHEN:
BVS holds 2-3 orientations a year to onboard volunteers for their 1-2 years of service. Applications are taken on a rolling bases. Click here to find out when the next orientation begins!
WHY:
BVS is a welcoming community where you can discover purpose and have unique experiences that positively change your life – all while helping others!
Have unique experiences Learn new skills Discover purpose Build your resume Make positive change Grow spiritually Build community Travel somewhere new Become a global citizen Transport to your volunteer site Housing Food money Monthly stipend In-person volunteer training Support year-round Mid-year retreat Flight back home Health insuranceSteps to Become a BVS Volunteer
Apply
All volunteers start by filling out an application and completing an interview process. Once accepted, you pick a BVS orientation to attend.
For more info about applying
Orientation
Every BVS volunteer attends a training before starting their year of service. These begin on zoom, where BVS staff work with volunteers to match you with a volunteer site. Then, all new volunteers have a nine day in-person training where you gain skills and build a community of support.
For more info about orientation
Serve
After orientation, BVSers head to their volunteer site for their year of service. BVS staff offer support year round and all domestic volunteers join together for a mid-year retreat.
For more info about your service year
Sample Volunteer Sites
L’Arche Chicago
L’Arche Chicago is one of the many projects which offers a home for people with disabilities who live in community with volunteers and staff.
Chicago, Illinois
Snowcap Food Pantry
SnowCap provides food and clothing to over 9,000 low-income neighbors each month. It’s one of many projects which provides services for the unhoused.
Portland, Oregon
Creation Justice Ministries
Creation Justice Ministries is one of our Washington, DC projects which is advocating justice by working to equip, educate, and mobilize communities.
Washington, D.C.
Ferncliff Camp
Ferncliff is one of many camps and conference centers which run summer camps for kids/youth, outdoor education, and retreats.
Little Rock, Arkansas
Check out our volunteer sites here
Interested in Short-Term Service?
Check out our FaithX program for week-long service trips!
Become a site for volunteers?
We partner with non-profits around the globe. Find out more.
FaithX will offer seven service trips in 2026, along with the option for custom-designed trips for families, congregations, or districts. To prioritize senior high participation in National Youth Conference (NYC) this coming July, we will be offering fewer youth trips.
Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) is accepting applications for the 2026-2027 year. BVS encourages applicants of all ages (18-plus) to put your faith into action and apply for a year of service.
Join us this summer in Northern Ireland, where vibrant cities and breathtaking coastal landscapes provide the backdrop for learning about the region’s remarkable journey from conflict to peace.
Aly Heckeroth begins Oct. 13 as FaithX assistant coordinator for the 2026 season, serving through Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) at the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Ill.
In 2025, a total of 165 youth and adults joined FaithX service trips and had the opportunity to engage in service, learn new skills, grow in faith, explore interesting places, live in community, and build friendships!
