Global Mission Internship El Salvador

June 10, 2024 - June 30, 2024

A smiling intern gives a beaming child a piggy back ride.

Interns participating in the El Salvador trip will receive training on the biblical view of disability and a theology of suffering through Beyond Suffering, at the Joni and Friends headquarters in Agoura Hills, CA. Then, in practical application of their learning, interns will serve people living with disability through the local church. They will receive hands-on experience joining the Pizza and Game Night at The Friendship Club, an adult disability ministry, at The Bridge.

Interns will then travel to El Salvador to serve at a Joni’s House and with Joni and Friends partners. Interns will serve in the local church and visit families on Calzada Island where many people living with disability are facing extraordinary challenges and exclusion from the community. They will also serve at a Joni and Friends International Family Retreat, where they will be able to help families by sharing God’s love and offering hope to those who have been impacted by disability. Interns will model inclusion as they serve as buddies to these campers, while their caregivers receive much needed respite. Camp programs consist of small group discussions, arts and crafts, recreation and games, bible stories, and more!

All interns are granted an opportunity to use their gifts and skillsets to serve their team and people living with disability. Whether you’re majoring in special education, therapy, ministry or are a person with great organizational, photography or writing skills, come ready to unite as a team to bring hope only God can provide for those marginalized within society. Interns will experience the culture and sights of El Salvador by visiting their local restaurants and shops, exploring beautiful landscapes and beaches, and hiking a volcano!

“This trip was transformative, and I am excited to see how The Lord continues to work in this country. I would love to participate in another trip like this.”

Intern – Daniela Cotter

Training

  • Beyond Suffering: Learn about suffering and disability from a biblical and cultural point of view
  • Orientation of Joni and Friends ministry
  • Receive mentoring which will allow you to use your education and skillsets in the field of disability

Hands-on Ministry

  • Work alongside Joni and Friends partners to care for and improve the lives of people in El Salvador
  • Serve in churches while getting exposed to needs of people with disabilities in the local community and help them get connected to the local church
  • Serve at Joni and Friends International Family Retreat
  • Work with organizations ministering to people with disabilities

Mentoring

  • Be mentored and challenged to implement disability ministry as part of your life calling
  • Be discipled in what it means to be a servant leader

Download Internship Description

*A limited number of scholarships are available on a first-come, first-serve basis for individuals in need of financial assistance. College credit may also be available depending on the requirements of your university. We are carefully proceeding with this internship with safety protocols in place. If Joni and Friends cancels the event, we will refund or reallocate the donations in accordance with our current policies.

**All associated costs are included in the cost of the internship.

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