Recruitment Underway for JVC/AmeriCorps members!
Meet Anna, Serendipity’s JVC/AmeriCorps volunteer who serves in the role of Garden Assistant in the wellness program.
While Anna prepared for her college graduation, she knew she was interested in a volunteer service year in the Pacific Northwest. After connecting with JVC Northwest during an undergraduate career fair (and reading “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer), Anna immediately realized a service role that included an environmental sustainability component would be the perfect match.
Meet JVC Northwest, an AmeriCorps program that responds to local community needs in the Northwest by recruiting, placing, and supporting volunteers who provide value-centered service. JV (Jesuit Volunteer) applicants are interested in addressing pressing community needs and creating a lasting impact across the Northwest.
JVC Northwest seamlessly matched Anna’s background and interests with Serendipity, where she’s able to observe both classroom staff and specialists at work as well as participate in on-going school-wide professional development training.
Anna, Serendipity’s current JVC/AmeriCorps Garden Assistant, works alongside students in the Growing Minds Garden.
Anna helps Serendipity’s Food Prep interns to prepare fresh produce from the Growing Minds Garden.
As Serendipity’s Garden Assistant, Anna helps to support our wellness program by co-facilitating hands-on lessons in our garden and teaching kitchen. Every day is exciting for Anna, whether it’s assisting two Serendipity Upper School students with a food preparation internship or working with Lower School students to sow seeds and learn about creatures in our garden.
Anna says, “I love working with the kids! Every single day they teach me something new and I’m happy to see them explore and flourish in the garden here at Serendipity.” To anyone considering JVC Northwest or doing a service year after college, Anna strongly encourages this experience. “It’s a very fulfilling experience. I’ve been able to come out of my comfort zone and learn so much. Keep an open mind and get ready to get your hands dirty in the garden!”
JVC members, upon being matched with Serendipity Center, will work alongside educators, clinicians and program staff committed to providing a therapeutic environment where students can heal, learn and thrive. Members will also receive a living stipend, communal housing, health insurance, and $6,895 towards education or to pay back student loans.
Service begins in August 2024.
