IVEP: International Volunteer Exchange Program

IVEP is a one year vocational and cultural exchange program that connects international young adults, ages 18 - 30, with host families and partner organizations in Canada and the U.S., where they live, serve and learn with others in a cross-cultural setting. 

The objectives of IVEP are to: 

• promote international peace and reconciliation
•  help participants understand themselves and others better
• increase a sense of personal involvement and responsibility in a world of interrelated peoples
• strengthen bonds of Christian fellowship
• broaden horizons and views
• correct stereotypes and misconceptions about other peoples
• help participants gain vocational skills through practical on-the-job training 

This year, MCC Alberta and its IVEP partners have welcomed four IVEP participants:

Maria Kusumaningtami from Indonesia, is currently serving in the MCC Thrift Shop in Edmonton

Jacqueline (Jackie) Karau from Kenya, is serving at the Calgary Centre for Newcomers

Ntombifuthi Mnisi from South Africa, is serving in Abbeydale Christian Fellowship & at MCC Alberta

Yangyang (Yung) Lin from China, is serving at the Edmonton Centre for Newcomers.

How to get Involved:

 IVEP is a great opportunity for a community to engage in service through either hosting an IVEPer in your home or providing a volunteer placement as a partner agency!

Be a Host: more information      

Be a Partner Agency: more information 

 Visit ivep.mcc.org for manuals, stories and to see a video!