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Visit our general FAQ for other questions about serving with MCC.

What kind of financial support does MCC provide during Seed?

MCC covers all assignment-related costs including: travel, orientation, food and household expenses, lodging, MCC in-country retreats, full medical coverage, and you will also receive a small monthly stipend for personal items (such as clothing, vacations and haircuts). You are responsible for covering costs related to pre-service optical and dental exams, but MCC will cover the cost of a pre-service medical exam. As a Seeder, you are also eligible for assistance with student loan repayments

MCC does not require you to raise your own financial support to participate in Seed. 

Can I participate in Seed if I’m married or have children?

If you’re married without children, you and your partner can apply for Seed. Unfortunately, we are not able to accept families with children. Many of the locations where Seeders are serving do not have schools for children and the program does not have capacity to provide childcare. Many MCC service opportunities are suitable for families with children, search other openings. 

Are there language requirements for participating in Seed?

Not necessarily, although it is helpful if you have a good foundation in the local language, which may be Spanish, French, English or Portuguese. All participants are encouraged to learn the local language during their placement. Any specific language requirements will be included in the posted position. 

What is the application process for Seed?

  1. If you’re interested in serving with MCC, first you need to create a candidate profile through the MCC website. If you’re married and applying with a partner, you both need to apply separately, meet MCC’s requirements and should each use your own email address.
  2. Once your profile is set up, you apply for a specific position, which includes attaching a resume and cover letter. You can browse open assignments here. Make sure to submit your application before the closing date.
  3. If the selection team thinks you could be a good fit for the program, we will contact you for additional information, which includes filling out a longer application form (available in Spanish, French and English) and providing references. Once you’ve submitted that form, we will contact your references.
  4. After we’ve collected the full application and heard from your references, the selection team will shortlist candidates for interviews.
  5. After the interviews, we make offers to candidates. In most cases, you will know whether you’ve been accepted or not within two weeks of the interview. 

What characteristics make someone a good fit for Seed?

While each Seed location and placement is different, there are some qualities that are helpful for all Seeders to have. You could be a good fit for the program if you are:

  • Interested in learning how to accompany local community processes rather than lead
  • Flexible with expectations and outcomes
  • Eager to participate in group reflection and analysis about your identity, context of origin, and the reality of the community where you’re serving
  • Committed to peace and non-violence and excited to work on a team despite theological and cultural differences
  • Committed to service and living simply. Seeders live in a way that’s similar to local community members rather than as foreign visitors.

When does the Seed term start and end?

For more information on Seed programs please contact seed@mcc.org