Franciscans for the Poor recruits, selects, and places dedicated individuals in non-profit agencies giving them the opportunity to bond with others for insights into the causes and effects of poverty and discerning a Franciscan response. Five programs are offered:

• Short Term Volunteer Experience: College students and adults make a short term commitment to serve those less fortunate, while living a simple lifestyle.
• Alternative Mission Break Volunteer Experience: College individuals or groups make a one week commitment of volunteer service and living in a community, sharing a simple lifestyle of prayer and service.
• Summer Youth Program: High School individuals or groups make a one week commitment of volunteer service and living in a community, sharing a simple lifestyle of prayer and service.
• Young Adult/Adult Outreach Volunteer Experience: Adults commit to a weekend of community service and living in a community, sharing a simple lifestyle of prayer and service.

Franciscans for the Poor volunteer program has a community residence which houses all the program volunteers in the Cincinnati, Ohio area. During the work day, volunteers perform their services at different work sites, including but not limited to jobs with food pantries, shelters, schools/tutoring, building maintenance/home repairs, health services, community organizing, office work support and other ministries. To reconnect in the evening, it is encouraged that the volunteers schedule four to five nights a week together for a meal and prayer time enabling them to bond with each other and create a supportive community environment. Being open, honest, willing, flexible and loving are key traits to building a supportive community and facilitate a rewarding volunteer experience.

Needs: Funding for the upkeep of the housing facilities and the Director’s salary