I joined the Lutheran Volunteer Corps as an opportunity to learn more about the state of immigration in the United States. I was placed at the World Relief Immigration Legal Clinic in Baltimore, Maryland, and I continue to work there today. My office works with immigrants to help each person know what their immigration options may be. If someone is not eligible for immigration relief, we let them know why not. If someone is eligible for immigration relief, we may help them in applying for immigration status. By working with clients who are from all around the world, I have been able to learn someRead More →

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As I prepared my 1 week reminder email for LVC applicants today, I was reminded that last year at this time, I sent out a link to a conversation with 2 LVC staff & a current Volunteer, facilitated by NationSwell. NationSwell contacted us as they were holding conversations with various service year programs, and they were excited to talk with an org connecting spirituality and service. As I rewatched it, I thought “WOW – we do really awesome stuff, and it does take a community to share all that LVC is up to.”   I also appreciate how articulate I was in many of my answers!Read More →

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At LVC’s August 2015 National Orientation in Chicago, Volunteers had the opportunity to hear Kim Bobo, a worker’s rights activist and founder of the Interfaith Committee on Worker Issues. Kim inspired and amused the Volunteers with “Bobo’s 10 Lessons for Making the Most of Your LVC Year.” Change history NOW. Social change historically has always been led by young people. Don’t think about work you’ll do later. Do it now. Develop a “Can Do” attitude. Having a positive, “can do” spirit is the most important characteristic of being able to change the world. Pitch in and do whatever needs doing. Build relationships across movements. Heather Booth, aRead More →

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This poem by Madeleine L’Engle speaks deeply to living with the “both/and” that is part of the Christian faith; recognizing the often painful reality of the world, while, at the same time, believing that pain, grief, death and fear are not the end of the story – hope, love and joy are what endures and gives life. May her words encourage you this Christmas Day. First Coming He did not wait till the world was ready, till men and nations were at peace. He came when the Heavens were unsteady, and prisoners cried out for release. He did not wait for the perfect time. HeRead More →

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Second Year Volunteer Cassie Hartnett Shares Her Story After a year of relationships, direct service work, and grad school applications, Cassie Hartnett is embarking on another year of LVC. She comes to her second year with a few lessons learned, a deepened sense of community, and a full ride to Union Seminary awaiting her. This is her story: My first LVC year was a huge growing experience in learning how to live in intentional community and exploring my faith. Being held accountable to my house community was important to me as I struggled to adjust to a new city, my first-year placement at Trinity SafeRead More →

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In: Esprit de Corps, Newsletter, Volunteer Profile