FAITH
THE VOLUNTEER LIFE
HOW VOLUNTEERISM HAS SHAPED AN ORGANIZATION, BUILT UP A REGION, AND TRANSFORMED LIVES ACROSS THE COUNTRY
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olunteers are central to the history and culture of Christian Appalachian Project (CAP). More than 50 years ago, Rev. Ralph Beiting began CAP’s mission as a volunteer. He built the foundation of CAP with volunteers from his family and his parishes. Even as the necessity to establish a permanent workforce of local employees emerged, volunteers remained an essential part of the organization’s operations and impact. CAP would not exist without the service of volunteers. This spirit of volunteerism invigorates, informs, and intensifies every aspect of the organization’s work in Eastern Kentucky. CAP volunteers are bound by a discernable culture and commitment that uniquely enables them to make a lasting impression on the region and the organization. This volunteer culture also facilitates a transformative experience for the individuals who serve. The immersive nature of serving and living in intentional community affords opportunities for personal and communal exploration, introspection, and growth. For college students, recent college graduates, and even retirees, volunteer service with CAP holds the potential to be a life-changing and deeply fulfilling endeavor. The life of a CAP volunteer can be a challenging one, however. Whether committing to short-term or long-term service, there is an inherent sacrifice in leaving the familiarity of home, friends, and family for an alien mission field. For individuals who feel a strong calling to serve CAP’s mission and are willing to embrace potential discomfort, adventure awaits. Amy
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THE MOUNTAIN SPIRIT | SPRING/SUMMER 2016
Schill, assistant director of CAP’s Volunteer Program, explains, “The commitment of volunteers doesn’t stop at simply serving 40 or more hours per week in one of CAP’s human service programs; it is also a commitment to a lifestyle of intentional community and spirituality that encompasses nearly every waking moment. People don’t come to CAP and merely volunteer – they become a CAP volunteer. And that identity sticks with them when they leave.” SERVICE, COMMUNITY, & SPIRITUALITY The CAP Volunteer Program is built on three pillars: service, community, and spirituality. CAP volunteers are commissioned to embrace each of these pillars, realized to various degrees and in multiple capacities depending on the nature of their service. The pillar of service is likely most apparent and easily comprehendible. The majority of volunteers commit to at least 40 hours of service per week in one particular program. Their time and attention are focused in one area, allowing them to gain an intimate knowledge of that program or service. The skills and experience acquired and honed in programs like Housing and Family Advocacy are invaluable tools that all volunteers take with them when they leave. Relationships are built with both participants and full-time staff during this period of concentrated service, enabling a transformative experience for all parties involved. The pillar of community refers to the intentional communities in which many of our volunteers live, and extends to the local communities in which they
