The MDS RV program is a volunteer opportunity for 55+ adults who want to help clean up, repair and rebuild after a disaster—and have fun doing it!
MDS RV projects are often smaller in scale than our traditional projects. There are usually 4-6 RVs (couples or individuals) serving at each project location for 4 weeks or more. Volunteers serve four six-hour days and have time to enjoy the area in their time off. The program typically operates from October through mid-December and January through March.
Projects are often located in the southern U.S., where it’s warm in the winter months!
View RV Volunteer Opportunities
How It Works
RV Volunteers are onsite for a minimum of 4 weeks, serving four days per week, six hours per day. MDS provides an RV site with full hookups including a minimum of 30-AMP electrical services, a water hookup and a means of black and gray water disposal – free-of-charge. In addition, volunteers may request a fuel (diesel or gas) reimbursement for travel according to the MDS RV Program guidelines. Where possible, laundry services and WiFi are provided.
RV Volunteers prepare their own meals and need to have kitchen, toilet and shower facilities in their RV. When an RV couple volunteers together, at least one spouse is expected to serve on the job site. The other spouse is encouraged, but not required, to work. RV volunteers serve as a team of 4-6 couples or individuals.
Each RV project is organized with a Project Director and an Office Manager to provide leadership for the project. The project accepts work assignments from a local disaster recovery committee. An RV team works on home repairs and has even been able to build a new home in 2-3 months time. Volunteers involved in the RV Program are expected to be Christians and active participants in a church.
Application Process
Prior to receiving a placement on a project, RV Volunteers are required to go through a three-step application process that includes:
- Complete an application.
- Complete an interview, usually over the phone.
- Submit two references.