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Bethesda Project is a faith-based community which builds families among the homeless poor of Philadelphia. Bethesda works in collaboration with local church communities and social service agencies to offer housing, supportive services and community life programs to homeless and formerly homeless men and women afflicted with serious physical, psychological, and behavioral problems.
Three volunteers are needed to serve in the following positions: Human Resource Consultant, Community Life Assistant, and Life Counselor. The Community Life Assistant is focused on developing programs which shape the residential houses into familial homes. The Life Counselor works at Our Brothers' Place shelter, assisting homeless men to stabilize their condition and transition into supportive housing. The Human Resource Consultant is a capacity building position which strengthens Bethesda's ability to adequately serve and care for its 120-plus staff.

While serving full-time for 1 year at this site, volunteers also commit to living a simple and spiritual lifestyle in community with other volunteers.

Volunteers are provided with:

• housing

• transportation (vehicle or public transit pass)

• food stipend

• medical insurance

• personal stipend ($100/month)

• orientations and retreats

• spiritual direction (if desired)

• support from the Sisters and Associates of Mercy as well as MVC alumni in the local community

The service year begins in early August and extends through the following July. The ending date of the yearlong commitment varies according to site and regional needs, but typically falls between July 15th and 31st. Volunteers may choose to renew for a second year.

To apply, visit www.MercyVolunteers.org/apply, e-mail ContactUs@MercyVolunteers.org, or call 215-641-5535.