VISA Seeks Employees to Lead Service Plunges

The Vincentian Institute for Social Action (VISA) is offering an exciting leadership opportunity for St. John’s employees!

The mission of the St. John’s University Plunge program is to offer students an extended service opportunity where they serve those in need within their unique living environments. Key elements of the plunges are community building, spirituality, simple living, solidarity, and service. Grounded in the Vincentian charism, the foundation of prayer and the mutuality of service are essential components to each plunge. As students engage themselves and are given time to reflect on their experience, the true Vincentian understanding of those who are impoverished comes alive. Provided for each participant is the opportunity for transformation and long-term application in their lives.

We would like to extend this amazing opportunity to St. John’s employees who want to colead one of these immersion experiences. As a Plunge Leader, you work alongside a VISA staff member who joins you on the experience and assists in the planning and organization of all aspects of an immersion trip. Most importantly, you facilitate an unforgettable experience with our students! 

Candidates who are eager to serve and comfortable sharing their faith will be afforded leadership experience like no other. Responsibilities of employee Plunge Leaders include student interviews, formation meetings, fundraising opportunities, presence for the week of Plunge, and other duties as needed.

Apply here 

Applications are due by October 13 at 11:59 p.m. Chris Bernabe and Canile Jackson, the plunge coordinators, will schedule an in-person interview after applications are reviewed. 

The 2024 Plunge site locations are

• Benson, VT: February 25–March 2 
• St. Louis, MO: February 25–March 2
• Denver, CO: February 25–March 2
• El Paso, TX: February 26–March 1
• Panama: Summer 2024
• Ward and Hardeeville, SC: Summer 2024

Note: 2024 plunge locations are contingent upon COVID-19 protocols and the availability of sites to accept student volunteer groups at this time.

As an employee Plunge Leader, prior to the start of the immersion trip, you will

• Conduct interviews and participate in the selection process of your team with your coleader, who will be a VISA team member.
• Attend Biweekly check-ins with Chris Bernabe during the semester of the immersion trip.
• Participate in ALL formations, including planning and leading the formation with your coleader.
• Participate in fundraising with the team to raise money to cover the cost of the students’ flights.
• Be present with the team for the entirety of the plunge. 

During the immersion trip, the leader job description includes

• Participating in service.
• Supporting students with the cofacilitator.
• Leading daily reflection and prayer.
• Working with the host organizations to conduct the service immersion trip logistics.
• Driving a rental vehicle during the immersion experience (contingent upon plunge needs).
• Checking in with VISA administrators back at St. John’s.

As an employee Plunge Leader, the Vincentian Institute for Social Action absorbs all costs of your immersion trip (i.e., program fees, housing, meals, and flight cost).

If you have any questions or concerns, please stop by our office in Sullivan Hall or contact Canile Jackson, Assistant Director for Vincentian Service, at [email protected]; 718-990-3412, or Chris Bernabe, Plunge Program Graduate Assistant, at [email protected].