Kenya

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through ELCA Global Mission, in cooperation with the Presbyterian Church (USA), has positions available in Kenya for ELCA young adults, ages 21-30. Volunteers must be flexible and able to work cooperatively, in good physical health, emotionally resilient, and culturally sensitive. They must also be willing to engage in issues related to race, poverty and class, serve in diverse communities (both racially and socio-economically), have a commitment to live simply and to learn basic communication skills in the language of the region. College degree or equivalent life experience required.

WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE?

Placements are with the ministries of churches or community service organizations of the Presbyterian Church of East Africa and may be in rural areas, small towns, or larger cities. Examples of service opportunities include:

• Teaching children and youth of various ages and abilities
• Training young adults and the unemployed
• Congregational outreach ministries to marginalized groups
• Assisting women’s projects
• Participating in health awareness activities
• Working with ecumenical organizations

Actual nature of service depends on your particular skills and interest as they relate to specific placements.

WHAT IS PROVIDED?

As a Young Adult in Global Mission, you will have the opportunity to learn more about yourself, grow in faith, and increase in understanding of your place in God’s world. In addition, you will receive:

• 35-40 hours per week work assignment
• Housing (varies depending on the site – home stay, shared housing, apartments, on-campus housing, etc)
• Food (either provided with your housing arrangement or by cash allowance)
• Pocket Money
• Vacation time as determined by country program
• Orientation in the US at the start of service
• Training conferences, retreats, and seminars throughout your period of service
• Opportunities for reflection, study, prayer and community building
• Supervision and support through your placement and an in-country program coordinator
• Airfare to and from your home and Kenya
• Medical Insurance
• Student loan deferment

WHAT IS MY COMMITMENT?

• Attend the Discernment Event April 17-20, 2008
• One year of service (beginning in mid-August 2008)
• Raise at last $4,000 towards program and support costs  (let staff know if you have questions or concerns)

 Applications received by February 15, 2008, will be given first priority. Final deadline for applications is March 1, 2008.