Volunteers live in communities of between four and seven people. They share large furnished homes in safe, working-class neighborhoods. Most volunteers work at different sites, an arrangement conducive to learning about a wide array of programs in the local area. Each community works out its own schedule, meal arrangements, cleaning regimens, and fun things to see and do while being attentive to Simple Living. The Program provides the basic needs; room and board, food, and personal reimbursable program related expenses for the community to live a comfortable yet simple lifestyle.
Volunteers share life, faith and fun. They try to “be there” for each other as they adjust to new living and working environments. A Support Person assigned to each community helps reinforce program values and encourage individual and collective growth. Community Nights and House Meetings bring everyone together at regularly scheduled times. They build mutual support and faith sharing.
“My community situation amazed me on how close you can grow with people in such a short time. It affirmed that people are placed in one’s life at different times for specific reasons. My housemates taught me more about sharing, learning when to give and take and being flexible.” —Julie Bianco, 2002-2003