Christian Reformed School Volunteer

Purpose:  This program is designed to provide an opportunity for volunteers to be part of and to promote transformational networks and missional communities. 

Specific Responsibilities:
1. Work in the areas of curriculum development, teacher training, administration, English language instruction, advancement, teaching specialized classes such as arts and music, or school improvement.
2. Build relationships with the community by staying open and flexible to the culture around you;
3. Live and worship with the community during the project;
4. Complete recommended reading, and orientation before departure;
5. Provide the Dominican Country Team (DCT) and community with an evaluation of the project;
6. Share your story or final report with your church, supporters, and Christian Reformed World Missions (CRWM).

Qualifications: 
1. Mature Christian committed to serving Jesus Christ;
2. CRCNA member in good standing;
3. Possession of an education degree, or in progress;
4. Teaching experience;
5. Significant Spanish ability required;
6. Ability to do physical labor in a tropical climate and working conditions;
7. Willingness to follow the community’s leadership in the project;
8. Be compassionate and respectful of other cultures;
9. Proactive and able to work with minimal supervision in what could be ambiguous situations;
10. Flexible, adaptable, and able to view life with a sense of humor. 

Benefits:
1. Experience a transformational mission experience that grows your faith and relationship with God
2. The chance to participate in a worthwhile missions experience;
3. Opportunities for professional development;
4. Preparation for future missionary endeavors;
5. A chance to learn from, serve and be served by people from a different culture;
6. Serve as an encouragement to Christians in the Dominican Republic;
7. Apply your current gifts and talents and discover some new ones;
8. Gain personal satisfaction by seeing first-hand how your prayers and contributions to CRWM have impacted Dominican Republic communities;
9. Assist in educating and raising awareness within North America about Dominican Republic's social/political situation;
10.  Expenses directly related to this volunteer opportunity are tax-deductible.

Support Services Provided: CRWM agrees to provide:
• Orientation materials as well as ongoing logistics and support to meet the needs of the volunteers, local community and CRWM’s country staff
• On-field supervision by a designated missionary, with weekly meetings
• On-going on-field pastoral and personal counseling as needed
• Opportunities to help volunteers link their individual/church’s mission and vision to work being done

Requirements of the Volunteer:
1. Complete and submit a CRWM volunteer application form;
2. Provide a current (within 2 years) criminal background check; including a vulnerable sector search;
3. Attend an orientation session in Grand Rapids, MI or Burlington, ON when possible, or participate in alternative (phone- and/or web-based) options. 
4. Adhere to CRCNA's Code of Conduct, Crisis Management Policy and other applicable policies and/or procedures;
5. Participation in CRCNA Dominican Country Team meetings, and the appropriate partner ministry meetings;
6. Possess cultural sensitivity and high moral standards are expected in areas of public testimony and personal conduct;
7. Follow the procedures as indicated in the appropriate agency manual;
8. Agree with and adhere to the CRCNA DCT’s vision, mission, and policies;
9. Raise all of the needed support and ministry-related funds;
10. Fulfill cultural and ministry orientation as prioritized and provided by the DCT at the beginning of field assignment.

Financial Obligations of the Volunteer: 
Please note that costs are estimated and listed in U.S. funds. Estimate is for a single person; assume 1.5 times this amount for a couple, and double this amount for a family with one to three children)

• Travel to country - varies; typically $600-$800 r/t
• Food & lodging - $800/month
• In country transportation - $300/month
• Tourist visa - $10
• Orientation/language learning $100
• Administrative expenses/communication (on-field) $50/month
• Ministry expenses $200-$300

TOTAL Estimated funds needed - dependent on length of stay, plus cost of airfare 

Additional Costs – depending on each individual
• Vaccinations, and prescription medication
• Medical and travel insurance
• Passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond date of return)
• Communication (i.e. cell phone, internet)
• Tourist trip - if so desired

How to Apply:
If you are interested in applying for this volunteer opportunity, please complete a World Missions Volunteer Application Form and submit it to Lisa.