Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the typical volunteer?

faq The Redeemer Ministry Corps welcomes single women and men who wish to commit to a year of service, faith and community life. RMC attracts people who are interested in journeying beside those who are suffering in some way, while deepening their faith and spirituality, fostering relationship with fellow RMC volunteers and Sisters of the Holy Redeemer, and adopting a lifestyle of simplicity. Volunteers have come from as far away as Germany and Lithuania, Nicaragua and England and from various colleges, universities and parishes in the United States.

How large is the program and where do RMC volunteers serve?

The RMC program usually has 5 to 7 volunteers per year. The office is located in Huntingdon Valley, PA, just outside of Philadelphia. Volunteer opportunities are available in urban and suburban Philadelphia, PA, or in seashore and rural communities of Southern NJ, an hour and a half south of Philadelphia. The small size of the program and the proximity of all the volunteers create a family atmosphere and allows for individual attention to each of the volunteers.

What does the benefit package consist of?

RMC volunteers receive a monthly stipend of $100 and a vehicle for transportation to the work site. Public transportation is also available. The RMC program covers the cost for your room and board. Volunteers receive health insurance and are responsible for co-pays. There is no dental insurance except in the case of a dental injury. Volunteers are given 10 days off per year in addition to traditional holidays (Christmas, New Years, Thanksgiving, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day & Good Friday). RMC volunteers also enjoy access to the Holy Redeemer Fitness Center!

Does RMC offer loan deferments?

YES! RMC volunteers can apply to their lending institution for loan deferments.

When does the year start… when does it end?

The RMC year begins in mid-August with a week of orientation and closes with a week of Debriefing, which usually finishes by July 31.

In what sort of placements do RMCs serve?

RMC volunteers serve mostly within the ministries of Holy Redeemer Health System, sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Redeemer. These works include healthcare, social work, eldercare, women and children and in childcare. There is also a volunteer opportunity at a shelter program for men and women in the city. Placements are tailored to fit the skills and gifts of the volunteers, as well as to meet the needs of the sites in which they serve.

How are placements decided?

Because of the small size of the program, service placements are made individually with the RMC Director. During the in-person interview process applicants have the opportunity to visit potential service sites and meet with the supervisor. Telephone interviews and contacts with supervisors are also possible.

What happens if I don’t like my placement?

A volunteer year is challenging, stretching and rewarding. We encourage everyone to take time to adjust to the new setting and environment. If it is determined, however, that the placement is not a good fit, we have the option of making a change.

How much is the spiritual aspect of the program emphasized?

RMC emphasizes the integration of volunteers’ faith into their experiences of service and community. Since it is our philosophy that service is born out of a faith motivation, we provide structure and opportunities to explore this aspect of the year in depth. The community typically comes together for prayer or reflection at least 2 times a week, depending on the schedule of the community members. We also offer the option of a spiritual mentor during the year. All RMC volunteers gather once per month in place of a workday for a day of reflection or service (different from your regular service placement), and once per week for an informal liturgy. Two weekend retreats are also offered during the year.

What does community living consist of?

RMC volunteers live together with Sisters of the Holy Redeemer in community sharing meals, prayer and activities. The RMC volunteers have the opportunity to gather as their own community as well. The community decides at the beginning of the year what their commitment to the aspects of community life will be: faith, service, household responsibilities and social.

What is a typical day like?

RMC volunteers lead “normal” lives–with the added commitment to community. Typically, they will go to work, come home and prepare dinner. If it’s a community night, they will gather for prayer and discussion or some other activity. On nights that aren’t scheduled community nights, RMC volunteers often spend informal time together, whether it be chatting, discovering new places in town, watching TV, or going for a run.

Will I meet people outside the RMC circle?

YES! Volunteers who are placed in Philadelphia will have the opportunity to meet other volunteers in faith-based programs in Philadelphia. We also inform the volunteers of service and young adult events in the local area. Volunteers who are placed in Southern New Jersey are also encouraged to connect with young adult events offered through the local diocesan office. We encourage you to be adventuresome and discover the exciting opportunities that await you whether in Philadelphia or Southern New Jersey.

What is the application process?

The first step is to complete the preliminary application form. Once this form is received by the RMC office, it is acknowledge with a phone call or e-mail note. A full application packet is then sent. This includes the application, references and medical forms. The applicant will need to request transcripts from the college/university attended. The RMC Director will keep you updated on the status of your application and maintain communication with you during this process. Once all of the application materials are received the next step are the interviews. There are generally three interviews, one with the Director, one with a psychologist and one with a committee (2 people familiar with RMC). It is preferred that the interview take place in person at the RMC office however, telephone interviews are possible but not recommended. The Director and applicant agree on mutually convenient dates and times to conduct the interviews. It generally takes about one week for decisions to be made on the status of the interviews. Decisions are communicated by telephone and by letter.

Are there application deadlines?

Yes. The deadline is May 31 but exceptions can be made based on the availability of placement sites.