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
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. Then, contact MDS staff to receive the application materials and begin the application process outlined below:
- Complete the Leadership Application.
- Submit two references.
- Submit a background check.
- After the paperwork mentioned above is submitted, complete an interview with MDS staff.
After completing the steps above and being approved for service by MDS staff, attend leadership training and specific training for the desired position(s). See below for training information. You may also shadow – spend one week learning from an experienced volunteer, as requested and available.
Then, work with MDS staff to find a service placement!
Apply Now- Completion of an application and participating in an interview does not guarantee placement on an MDS project.
- MDS provides food & lodging for Leadership Volunteers.
- Reimbursement for travel expenses to and from projects and a small stipend are provided according to the current MDS policy.
- Volunteers are responsible for their own medical healthcare insurance – MDS carries secondary accident insurance for all volunteers.
- Pets are NOT allowed on projects. (Exception: RV sites that allow pets – pets must be left at the RV site.)
MDS provides general MDS Leadership Training and training for specific MDS Leadership Volunteer roles.
For more information about MDS Leadership Trainings or to register for them, visit this page or contact Gabby Bomberger, Volunteer Training Specialist, at 717-735-3536 or by using this form.
January 26, 2026
Registration is closed for this event.
March 23 - 25, 2026
LaGrange, Indiana
Registration is closed for this event.
March 26 - 27, 2026
LaGrange, Indiana
Registration is closed for this event.
March 30, 2026
Zoom
April 9 - 10, 2026
Lititz, Pennsylvania
April 9 - 10, 2026
Lititz, Pennsylvania
June 15 - 17, 2026
Lititz, Pennsylvania
June 18 - 19, 2026
Lititz, Pennsylvania
June 18 - 19, 2026
Lititz, Pennsylvania