EVP - Encuentro Volunteer Program
Building Relationships through Service!
MISSION
Encuentro Volunteer Program embraces and promotes the culture of encounter. Through the experience of building relationships through service, we proclaim the values of human dignity, equality, respect, solidarity, justice and spirituality. We invite women to participate in the sacred journey of encountering the other in marginalized and disadvantaged communities, extending love and kindness to them through diverse service projects.
SERVICE
Volunteers put their talents and creativity to the service of others, especially the poor and marginalized of society. The volunteers live the culture of encounter by reaching out, meeting each person where he or she is at and forming right relationships with the utmost respect for the person, his or her culture, religion or lack thereof, world view and overall situation. The volunteer pays special attention to the inherent dignity of those she serves, treating them not as recipients of the volunteer’s charity, but as individuals with talents, creativity, and with the capacity to create a better future for themselves and their communities. The volunteer taps into the gifts of those she accompanies in service and promotes their growth, many times in the context of unjust social situations and in the hopes of contributing to more just living conditions.
SPIRITUALITY
In the context of their faith, EVP volunteers are encouraged to reflect on the attitudes, values and practices which motivate them at their deepest level. Through the practice of prayer, meditation, and discernment, both personal and communal, the volunteers reflect on and discover God’s graces and callings in the everyday experiences during their volunteer time. The insights gained help them discern and pave the way for a continued life of service after their EVP experience.
COMMUNITY
Volunteers gathered in community are called to build right relationships, living the values of respect, teamwork, and simple living in solidarity with the poor. Volunteers support each other and learn from each other by sharing their diverse experiences, hopes, dreams and insights. Meals, prayer, work and recreation are part of the everyday activities volunteers share as they journey together during their time of service.
5467 West 8th Street Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 424-7208