There were countless churches that aided the YAVs. They did things like provide us with cleaning supplies for our house, invited us to events and even allowed us to give a few sermons. I had a chance to volunteer alongside four programs, and each program welcomed me more than anywhere I have ever been. One of my favorite communities to work alongside was a church where I tutored elementary school students after school. During the summer, this community held a summer camp where I enjoyed the youth of New Orleans. The communities that surrounded the YAVs were extremely welcoming.
Before committing to my year of service, I graduated from seminary. My No. 1 goal after graduation was to learn how to connect with people. Being a YAV helped me do that; I found myself giving sermons, conducting Bible studies and occasionally preparing meals for others. All of these opportunities helped me achieve my goal of connecting with people. This also helped me learn more about others.
One of the main principles that the YAV program focuses on is cross-cultural mission, and activities in New Orleans were perfect for that experience. With many activities to do throughout the year, Mardi Gras parades were definitely one of the most memorable activities. Before my service year, I knew very little about these parades. What I knew came from movies, books and social media. Yet to see this culture in person showed me the importance of understanding diversity.
Overall, my YAV year was extremely impactful. “A year of service for a lifetime of change” is the YAV motto, and now that I have completed my service year, I can honestly say that this statement is true. With a year of serving various communities, I now have life skills, knowledge and friends thanks to this program. Any young adult in the process of vocational discernment should consider the YAV program. The Young Adult Volunteer program is truly transformative.
- Steffan Johnson, YAV Alum
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