The QUEST program was started in 1971 by the USA-Haiti Province as a means of inviting lay volunteers, especially younger people, to accompany the RJM through intentional community and service in ministry.
Historically, the QUEST program has operated at a number of different sites across the United States. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and in light of recent political challenges in Haiti, there are no active QUEST program communities. The RJM invite those interested in the being involved in QUEST as soon as the program re-starts are encouraged to contact our Director of Mission Advancement, Toby Harkleroad. Planning is underway to re-activate the QUEST program at our ministry sites in Haiti and to potentially offer QUEST opportunities at ministry sites in the USA. Those interested in international volunteer opportunities with the RJM, might also be interested in learning more about the J.M. International Volunteer Programme.
The QUEST volunteer program has been an essential part of the RJM mission to Haiti. The QUEST program in Haiti provides the laity with an opportunity to serve God’s people in the poorest country in the western hemisphere either for a year-long ministry experience or our summer “Kamp Klodin” experience.
Whereas we will continue to foster commitment of all former QUEST volunteers to the mission in Haiti, we are not actively recruiting volunteers at this time. However, sisters serving in Haiti may continue to accept volunteers for specific projects. These volunteers will be persons who are known to the RJM sister involved. They will usually be older than 30 years, have knowledge of the risk involved, and come with particular professional expertise.
As of February 2024, due to the challenging political and security situation in Haiti
Volunteers are committed to developing their spirituality, living simply, growing in community and working for social justice that challenges unjust structures. They live with the Religious of Jesus and Mary sisters (RJMs) and share in their mission.
Lay volunteers have served in the mountain town of Gros Morne, which is about five hours north of Port-au-Prince and in Jean Rabel, a hamlet about three hours northwest of Gros Morne.
Volunteers have worked in a variety of community organizing efforts in Haiti: artisan groups, gardening, health care, reforestation, youth groups. The type of work volunteers may undertake, depends on their interest, initiative, skills and talents.
Volunteer opportunities are the month of July and year long commitments. For more information:
- Visit (and like/share) the RJM – Haiti page on Facebook.
- Contact Toby Harkleroad, 821 Varnum St., NE, Washington, DC 20017 E-mail: tharkleroad@rjmusa.org
