Wayfinders: Launching Spiritual Activists Program through 1001 NWC


Do you know a student who wants to pursue anti-racism, anti-poverty, or a spiritual practice with others on your campus? We’re excited to introduce you to Wayfinders: Launching Spiritual Activists, a new leadership development opportunity from 1001 New Worshiping Communities in the Presbyterian Church (USA).

WHO WE ARE: We believe in empowering the next generation of organizers and community leaders by connecting current college and university students with both the mentorship and financial resources to found a justice or spirituality experiment on their campuses. For over twelve years, the 1001 New Worshiping Communities initiative of the PC(USA) has launched hundreds of new faith-based projects across the country, aimed at providing space for groups that traditional churches have historically excluded or marginalized. We are here to provide coaching, financial support, and structure to help students who are passionate about creating positive change in their communities reach their fullest potential.

WHY WE’RE HERE: We’ve learned that the most successful founders of new initiatives are those who have started anything in the past. We want to give college students the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial projects to awaken them to the possibilities for spiritual justice work beyond their college experiences.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR: This program is open to undergraduate and graduate students that have a connection to a Presbyterian Church (USA) ministry (a church, new worshiping community, or campus ministry) who are excited to create a new on-campus initiative related to anti-racism, anti-poverty, or spiritual practice. Experience is not required; we expect your ideas to grow and develop throughout your participation. (Note: Applicants must be age 30 or under.)

WHAT TO EXPECT: We are committed to support each Wayfinder throughout the planning and implementation process. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance in early December. After attending an in-person incubator January 10-12, 2025, participants will begin to live out the plans they formulated under the mentorship and guidance of our program. Each participant will also receive a $500 microgrant to cover any expenses for their project. During the trial run on campus, each student in our program will receive monthly one-on-one coaching to reflect on their goals and interpret their experiences. When the semester concludes, we will gather one final time for a debrief retreat from May 16-18 to share our journeys and learn from one another’s experiences.

Ready to explore this opportunity? Applications are due December 1st. Apply today! https://form.jotform.com/243117936075156

Questions? Contact Michael Gehrling with 1001 NWC.

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