Brethren Volunteer Service: Peace Brigades International (PBI)

  Germany

Hamburg

Dates: Inquire for specific dates

Description: The German branch of Peace Brigades International (PBI) seeks an International Volunteer. PBI is an international NGO working on nonviolent conflict transformation with projects in Colombia, Mexico, Guatemala, Indonesia, and Nepal. The tasks of the volunteer are to support the work of the German branch through daily office duties, public relations, participating in decision-making meetings, supporting fund-raising activities, information dissemination, and participation in educational activities.

Highlights: Brethren Volunteer Service seeks people willing to act on their commitment, values, and faith. We challenge individuals to offer themselves, their time, and their talents to work that can be difficult and demanding, yet rewarding and joyful.

Since 1948, Brethren Volunteer Service has been about people sharing God's love through acts of service. As a Christian-based volunteer program sponsored by the Church of the Brethren, BVS builds on the churchs strong commitment to service.

Volunteers serve a year or more at projects that commit to one or more of the following goals of BVS: working for peace; advocating justice; serving human needs; caring for creation.

Qualifications: Interest in nonviolent conflict transformation. Good knowledge of German and willingness to improve. Flexibility, adaptability to other cultures, ability to work in groups and with group decision-making processes. Basic computer proficiency; additional computer skills would be desired but not necessary. Any knowledge of the conflicts and countries in which PBI has projects would be an asset. Other skills which would be assets but not required include public speaking, conflict analysis, writing reports/articles, and translating (German-English and German-Spanish).

Requirements to serve in BVS international assignments include: 21 years of age or older; four-year college degree; sound physical and mental health; willingness to examine the Christian faith; commitment to the goals of BVS; participation in the three-week volunteer orientation. Opportunities for international persons wishing to serve through BVS are very limited.

Salary / Pay: Service benefits include: housing, food, full medical insurance, a monthly stipend between $60 and $80, and the opportunity to serve others. In most cases, qualifying educational loans may be deferred for up to three years.

Experience Required: no

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Phone Interview
• Resume
• Transcript
• Written Application

Brethren Volunteer Service's Mission Statement: Brethren Volunteer Service is persons giving their time and skills to help a world in need. It is a way for people to work at issues greater than themselves, recognizing that their efforts may not immediately solve deep-rooted problems, but can be part of on-going work for justice, peace, and the integrity of creation. Volunteers bring hope to shattered lives, offer food and shelter to those in need, and build understanding between individuals, groups, nations, humanity, and the world we share. It is essential that each volunteer bring a willingness to serve. Important work towards peace, justice, meeting the needs of humanity and the environment calls out for persons willing to serve.

Year Founded: 1948