In August, Mennonite Mission Network began its 2024-25 young adult programs with two Service Adventure units and three Mennonite Voluntary Service units, with at least three participants in each location.

That may not seem like much cause for celebration, but during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the units only had two participants. Some had none.

Fuller units benefit everyone, from host congregations to participants, because community — a core principle of these programs — is more fully realized.

Additionally, fuller units help ensure financial sustainability, giving supporting congregations and Mission Network the flexibility to provide continued financial support.

The future for MVS and Service Adventure looks bright. The drop in participants during the COVID pandemic has passed, and the programs are gaining strength.

“It feels as though we are gaining momentum after crawling out of the initial years of the pandemic,” said Michael Oyer, human resources placement coordinator.

Oyer, who works closely with Service Adventure and MVS applicants, was a Service Adventure unit leader in Anchorage, Alaska, from 2019 to 2022.

One of the most exciting aspects of the programs this year is the quality of unit leaders for Service Adventure and the local leaders for MVS.

“There is great energy around our new unit leaders and the experience and thoughtfulness they bring to the position,” Oyer said. “I am excited to see them grow into what is such a crucial role within this program.”

These programs are often thought of as gap years. Service Adventure typically serves as a transition year between high school and next steps, whether college or a career. MVS similarly offers a break between college and joining the workforce. But the impact goes far beyond a single year.

“Despite a lot of unknowns that come with stepping out in faith and moving to a new place, taking on new daily challenges and meeting all new people, the transformative power of the shared experience [of Service Adventure or MVS] is unique,” Oyer said.

Oyer has seen the growth that occurs in young people when they commit to these programs.

“Through serving others and living intentionally into a new place, one’s ability to care for and serve others expands beyond the initial year of service,” Oyer said.

As a church, it is our responsibility to sustain this momentum and energy. The best way to do this, Oyer said, is to tell stories of service, encouraging those who have participated in programs like Service Adventure and MVS to share their experiences.

“[This might entail] setting aside Sunday school times to discuss service while also relating service back to our faith and the biblical importance that comes with the concept,” Oyer said. “Storytelling and sharing our own experiences of serving is a great start to continuing this momentum.”

For the 2025-26 service term, those who apply by Jan. 31 get the broadest selection of placements and unit houses.

Zachary Headings is a marketing specialist for Mennonite Mission Network.