US Program

Since ARSP began its work in the U.S. in 1968, more than 700 German volunteers have participated in the long-term program of ARSP.

Each year 23 German volunteers start a peace service with ARSP in the U.S.

Placement agencies vary in purpose, size, focus and style, however, they all share a commitment to at least some of the ideals of ARSP. They teach lessons of the Holocaust. They work to improve conditions of the poor, the disabled, the oppressed and disenfranchised. They are motivated by a concern for social justice and work to bring people of different ethnic backgrounds together.

They are friendly visitors to the eldery, community organizer and museums guides. They strive for peace both at home and throughout the world.

The volunteers also attend 4 Seminars in the course of their service - a 10-Day orientation seminar held in both Germany and the US, a 2-Day weekend seminar in December, a week-long Spring conference and a closing seminar in Germany.

Today our volunteers are engaged in one of four different fields:

• working with the Jewish community
• social services with marginalized groups
• civic education and human rights
• community organizing

ARSP has always worked closely with a number of progressive church groups which share its concerns. These include the Quakers, Church of the Brethren, United Church of Christ, Presbyterian Church, Lutheran Church and the Catholic Worker movement.