Aquinas College :: Campus Ministry

Service-Learning Programs: Nazareth Farm

Applications available Sept. 2008

Payment Contract

Health Information

Description of Program:

Students travel to Salem, West Virginia to experience a community rooted in prayer, community, simplicity and service. Nazareth Farm's mission is to provide volunteers a communal experience of Church, as a center of reflection and prayer, while working to promote justice through the empowerment of the local community and volunteers.

Nazareth Farm is about serving those living in poverty, while trying to understand what Jesus was asking of us when He said, "Love your neighbor." Understanding the true meaning of being a neighbor involves components of prayer, community, simplicity, and service - all of which can be found at Nazareth Farm.

Description of Services:

During break, October 19-25, 2008, Aquinas students travel with their advisor to Salem, West Virginia to spend one week at Nazareth Farm. Aquinas students team up with students from other colleges or universities to work on home repairs and home reconstruction/rehabilitation. The people of the community also join in to help build their own homes. Other service opportunities include home visitation as well as doing farm chores.

Living Arrangements:

Students will stay in rustic volunteer houses. While at Nazareth Farm, meals will be provided, and the group may be asked to assist in meal preparation as well as in clean up. Daily prayer reflections, Mass, and free time are additional scheduled events.

Financial Arrangements:

The cost for each student cost is $125, which covers transportation and room and board while at Nazareth Farm. Participants are asked to bring money and/or snacks for meals on the way to and from West Virginia. Your Aquinas student account must be in good standing to participate on this Service-Learning trip.

Payment Process:

A NON-REFUNDABLE program fee of $125 will be charged to your student account. If you are not accepted, the charge will be cancelled. If you are accepted, you will be responsible to pay your program fee through your student account. Note: Even if you withdraw from the program, after being accepted, you are still responsible for the payment. Student Account policies apply to any unpaid balances.

Requirements:

Space is limited, and priority will be given to current full-time, traditional age Aquinas students, though graduate students and guests are welcome to apply. (Prices may differ for guests.)
Applications available Sept. 2008.
A personal interview.
A completed health/emergency contact form .
A submitted/signed payment contract . (See payment process.)
Attend an orientation meeting.
Nazareth Farm Health/Medical release form.
Nazareth Farm Hold/Harness Agreement.
Nazareth Farm Volunteer Contract.