Welcome to Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) Northwest! I hope this letter finds you safe and healthy. We are living in troubled times, with the global pandemic creating more uncertainty and inequality than ever before. As the Executive Director of JVC Northwest and on behalf of all the volunteers who have come before you and the communities you will serve, I want to start by saying thank you for your "yes," especially during this moment of human history. Your willingness to serve is humbling and powerful.
 
Not too long ago, I joined JVC Northwest because of the inspiring tradition and mission. Now, we are excited that you will join this 60+ year tradition of serving with those most in need in communities throughout the region. This is where the Jesuit Volunteer movement began and where there are strong roots in local communities. In your time as a volunteer, you will encounter many former JVs who still live in your locale and feel very connected to our mission. Your year will be filled with chances to grow and stretch as you immerse yourself into our four core values of community, simple living, social and ecological justice, and spirituality/reflection. And as a bonus, this part of the world is breathtakingly beautiful!

We hope to meet you in August at Orientation. As with everything in the world today, though, we will be monitoring state and federal guidelines for social distancing and group gatherings. As the end of the summer comes closer, we will be in regular contact with you about Orientation and the start of your service. For now, we wish you the best of luck as you wrap up the current chapter of your journey.
 
I wish you well in these days of transition. We will be waiting for you!

Peace,

Greg Carpinello
Executive Director