Mexico

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through ELCA Global Mission has positions available in Mexico 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?

Various sites in and around Cuernavaca, and are the settings for work the areas of social justice, development, and education.

Particular placements include working in the following areas:

• Classroom teaching in English, art, recreation.
• Working among women and children
• Community development: workshops and project development related to health, education, ecology, domestic violence, etc.
• Immigration and refugee issues
• Advocacy: solidarity with local labor groups and farmer communities, connection with advocacy work in the ELCA

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 Mexico
• Medical Insurance
• Student loan deferment

WHAT IS MY COMMITMENT?

• Attend the Discernment Event April 16-19, 2009
• One year of service (beginning in mid-August 2009)
• Raise at least $4,000 towards program and support costs  (let staff know if you have questions or concerns)

Applications received by February 15, 2009, will be given first priority. Final deadline for applications is March 1, 2009.