Being a Dominican Volunteer
Dominican Volunteers USA is a full time service experience sponsored by the Order of Preachers, Dominican women and men around the United States.
Dominican Volunteers are committed men and women who give 11-12 months (second year renewable) in ministry as well as in Dominican community. The DVUSA experience starts with an Orientation in August. Two additional mid-year retreats (February and June) provide opportunities for reflection, renewal, volunteer community, and closure at the end of each year.
Volunteers live in Dominican communities around the United States. Possible urban placements include New York City, Chicago, Houston, Atlanta, Northern California, Grand Rapids, and St. Louis. Possible rural placements exist with one of several Dominican organic farms, including those in Springfield, IL, Racine, WI, and Columbus, OH, or placement with the Holy Family Birthing Center for certified midwives or nurses in Weslaco, TX, on the U.S.-Mexico border.
Application and Interview Process
"As a Dominican Volunteer, I work full time in exchange for housing, food, insurance, a small stipend, and invaluable life experience. The climate of my work environment is stimulating, to say the least. I interact with dozens of colorful personalities each day and perform a variety of tasks requiring flexibility and, as our motto at St. Francis Center says, 'compassion, not judgment.'"
Carla Johnson spent two years volunteering at St. Francis Center in Redwood City, CA.