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Three volunteers measuring pieces of wood.Three volunteers measuring pieces of wood.

What is a Leadership Volunteer?

Leadership Volunteers are responsible for the day to day operations of an MDS project. They work together with local community partners and homeowners, organize the work for the weekly volunteers, and ensure that all volunteers are well fed and cared for throughout their time on the project.

MDS Leadership Volunteers serve for 4 weeks or more on a project, providing continuity and a connection to the local community. Whether a Cook or Crew Leader, Project Director or Office Manager, Leadership Volunteers grow relationships with the local community and their fellow volunteers as MDS restores hope and partners in a community’s recovery.

MDS Leadership Volunteers are:

  • Christians and active participants in a church
  • Motivated to serve and guide Weekly Volunteers
  • Lead and work cooperatively with others
  • Work hard
  • Manage people, their work, and engage with community partners

View Leadership Volunteer Opportunities
Application Process

If you have never served on an MDS project, start here to apply for a week-long experience. If you want to learn more about MDS Leadership Volunteering, attend an Intro to MDS Leadership Volunteering Zoom call.

  1. Complete the Leadership Application (required).
  2. Complete an interview with MDS staff (required).
  3. Submit references and a background check (required).
  4. Attend leadership training and specific training for desired position(s). See below for training information.
  5. Shadow – spend one week learning from an experienced volunteer, as requested and available.
  6. Work with MDS staff to find a service placement!
Apply Now
Additional Information

More Information

Canadian residents: Rose Klassen at 866-261-1274 or through this form.

U.S. residents: Josh Carson at 800-241-8111 or through this form.

Leadership Trainings

MDS provides general MDS Leadership Training and training for specific MDS Leadership Volunteer roles.

For more information about MDS Leadership Trainings, contact Gabby Bomberger, Volunteer Training Specialist, at 717-735-3536 or by using this form.

Introduction to MDS Leadership Volunteering

January 27, 2025

Zoom

General Leadership Training

March 17 - 19, 2025

Kingsburg, California

Construction Leaders Training

March 20 - 21, 2025

Kingsburg, California

Introduction to MDS Leadership Volunteering

March 31, 2025

Zoom

General Leadership Training

June 9 - 11, 2025

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Introduction to MDS Leadership Volunteering

June 23, 2025

Zoom

General Leadership Training

August 25 - 27, 2025

Lititz, Pennsylvania

hybrid: offered in-person and online via Zoom

Office Manager Training

August 28 - 29, 2025

Lititz, Pennsylvania

Construction Leaders Training

August 28 - 29, 2025

Lititz, Pennsylvania