MDS Scholarship

Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) is an organization that coordinates clean up and reconstruction after natural disasters around North America. Since 1950, they have been recruiting, organizing and empowering volunteers to repair and rebuild the homes of those impacted by disasters in the United States and Canada. 

MDS offers a $4500 scholarship to students who volunteer at least 4 weeks (between May and August) on an MDS project. The goal is to promote service and volunteering in a younger generation. By providing a scholarship to Grebel students, we can encourage them to participate in meaningful service, without detracting from their ability to earn money over the summer to pay for their education.

This award was established to provide financial support for students living at Conrad Grebel University College while pursuing studies at the University of Waterloo or Wilfrid Laurier University. 

This award is given to:

• Students attending Conrad Grebel University College as either a resident or associate 
• Full-time students under a degree program
• Students in good academic standing

Students must meet the MDS criteria for long-term volunteers:

• This includes being at least 19 years old, a Christian, willing to abide by MDS Core Values, and affirm the Shared Convictions for the time they are serving with MDS. A full list of criteria can be found on the MDS application form.
• MDS is looking for students who are service-oriented, self-motivated, do well working in a team, and are aligned with MDS values.
• Students must complete at least 4 weeks of service with MDS to receive the scholarship.
• After the service placement, students must submit a 500-word reflection on their time serving with MDS. This essay may be used to share an impactful story, explore the highs and lows of their service time, or any other comments on their experience.
• Students must be eligible to volunteer at both Canadian projects or U.S. projects. MDS operates in both Canada and the U.S., and Canadian service opportunities cannot be guaranteed for all students each year. MDS does not provide assistance with visas.

Funding: 

• The MDS Service Scholarship Award of $4,500 will be designated for the Full-Time tuition expenses of one term.
• MDS will cover the travel costs of students to and from their place of service, as per MDS Long-Term Volunteer Travel Reimbursement Policy.
• MDS will seek to provide an orientation (or sufficient materials) to prepare the students for their time serving with MDS.
• While on project, all food and lodging costs will be covered by MDS.

• Download and submit MDS Service Scholarship application form by January 31st, 2024 to Rose Klassen (Volunteer Manager) at rklassen@mds.org
• Selected applicants will be invited for interviews (via zoom or in-person) and may be asked for two references (including one from a professor or staff person at their school).
• Scholarships will be offered by March 15, 2024. Applicants who are wait-listed or are not offered scholarships will also be notified by March 15.
• Placement dates/location will be arranged as soon as possible after offers are accepted.