Commitments and Goals

Here are the Commitments and Goals that we ask each of us to acknowledge

SUMMER SERVICE COMMITMENTS AND GOALS:

Commitments:

- Emails and phone calls: I will do my best to answer emails and phone calls from the trip coordinators asap or within 48 hrs. (We cannot stress this enough. It makes the coordinators’ jobs so much easier. Email is the best and quickest method to communicate. However, if this is not the best method for you, let the coordinators know this right away.)

- Stock sales: If I am available, I will work at least one shift at our week-end stock sales after the masses. This is important not just to divide the work load but so that our churches see us as part of the larger community, sent as delegates. We also each benefit from these donations. Otherwise the cost of this journey would be much higher.

Scheduled sales: St. Nicholas: May 13th-14th. June 11th-12th. St. Mary : June 4th-5th

- Other fundraiser: If there is another fundraiser, I will participate in the activity and promotion to the extent that I am able. Post the Go Fund Me through social media. Spread the word about the coffee fundraiser.

- Meetings/Potlucks: I will participate in our Service Team introductory meeting tbd and final meeting before the trip on tbd, and in our St. Nicholas/St. Mary's Community presentation after the trip (usually in the Fall or Winter) to the extent that I am able.

-Enrichment and Team Bonding: Besides the meetings described above, I understand that there are some readings, films and possible outing(s) that will provide some valuable team bonding and background for my experience. I understand that these are optional but I commit to participate in this pre-trip experience to the extent that I am able.

- Send-off blessing: I will show up for the St. Nicholas/St. Mary's send- off blessing, on Sunday, July 17th at 10:15 mass at St. Nicholas.

- Writing postcards: I will participate in the one Postcards to Donors writing session while on the trip.

-Reflection moderator and journal writing: I will be a Reflection leader (with another teammate) for at least one day, and lead any prayers that day. I will also do the group's journal entry for that day.

- Self-care and Flexibility: I will be flexible, understanding that this trip may not be perfect, or meet all of my personal expectations. I understand that I may address any concerns directly with the trip coordinators. We will work together to resolve any conflicts in a spirit of cooperation. I will remember to take care of my health. If I need to take a day off or I need to excuse myself from an activity in order to remain healthy and well-rested I will do so.

Goals:

Service and immersion trips are designed to provide real-life, justice–oriented experiences rooted in simplicity, community, prayer, and service. It is important for each member of the team to understand and support this mission in order for the program to be successful for all.

Simplicity: I understand that this experience will require me to step out of my comfort zone. I agree to live this week in simplicity, without some of the conveniences to which I am accustomed. I understand that food choices are made to serve a large group and may not always be my preferred choice. I agree to limit my use of electronic devices and resources.

Community: I understand that living and working in community will require me to be patient and kind toward all members of the group. I understand that I will be visiting an area where the culture and the customs may differ from my own, and I will treat all people on the trip and in the surrounding community with respect.

Prayer: I understand that this experience will involve prayer and reflection. I am open to this experience of prayer and reflection and will actively participate to the degree to which I am able.

Service: I realize the importance of following a schedule. I understand that being present to the people I am working with is an important form of service and I will work hard to complete each task given to me with pride and humility.