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Over a period of 11 years, the Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) placed nearly 60 volunteers in the Bend area, each of whom gave a full year of his/her life to serve the poor for local organizations. But in 2002, this innovative, faith-based organization discontinued its volunteer placements to Central Oregon.
With the wonderful support of JVC, the remaining team of local support people banded together to form the Bend Volunteer Corps (BVC). Up to eight full-time volunteers from throughout the United States will be selected to serve those in need in the community for one full year.
In 2009, The BVC embraced an opportunity to partner with Notre Dame Mission Volunteer-Americorps program for one year. Pending grant approval in June 2010, Bend Volunteer/Notre Dame-AmeriCorps team members for the 2010/2011 service year will continue to receive AmeriCorps benefits and be part of the Notre Dame Mission Volunteers' network of volunteers (www.ndmva.org), which places more than 350 people in service organizations around the country. The foundress of the Sisters of Notre Dame, St. Julie Billiart, invited those with whom she worked to have "...hearts as wide as the world."
In recent years, Central Oregon has experienced some of the greatest population growth in the state. And with increased population has come increased poverty. Central Oregon is home to the third largest homeless shelter in the State (The Bethlehem Inn). Oregon has the 3rd highest homeless population per capita according toa 2007 national study. You are invited to be part of the Bend Volunteer/Notre Dame-Americorps Team, opening your heart to serve the poor and marginalized in Central Oregon. |