Our Mission and Vision
Faith in Action.
Service with Purpose.
A Community Transformed.
At the Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC), we believe that service is a calling, faith is a journey, and reflection deepens both. Guided by Ignatian Spirituality, we empower adults 50+ to serve communities in need, grow in their faith, and work toward a more just world. Learn about our mission, vision, and values that help us stay true to our faith.
Through our programs, volunteer corps members engage in meaningful service that not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters lasting relationships within the community. Together, we strive to create an environment where every individual feels valued and empowered to make a difference.
IVC’s Mission
The Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) provides mature men and women the opportunity to:
- Serve those in need through meaningful, long-term service experiences
- Work for a more just society by partnering with mission-driven nonprofits
- Deepen their faith through Ignatian spiritual reflection and prayer
Through this unique combination of service and spirituality, IVC members find purpose, connection, and transformation—both in themselves and in the communities they serve.
IVC’s Core Values
At IVC, we are guided by the following core values:
Service with and for the materially poor
We walk alongside those in need, working for justice and systemic change.
Faith and reflection in action
Our corps members engage in Ignatian reflection, deepening their understanding of God’s presence in their work.
The dignity of all people
We honor the equality, worth, and unique gifts of every individual, regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, education, or economic status.
Lay Leadership in Transforming the World
We believe in the power of the laity to bring about meaningful change, inspired by the Gospel and Jesuit values.
Collaboration and Partnership
We work together with laity, clergy, and people of goodwill, supporting their gifts and ministries.
Seeking the Magis
Meaning “the greater good,” Magis calls us to continual growth, deeper service, and a bold pursuit of justice.
Our Jesuit Roots and Traditions
IVC is deeply rooted in the spiritual tradition of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits. Like Ignatius, we are called to:
- Be “Contemplatives in Action”—Integrating prayer and reflection into daily service.
- Stand in solidarity with those in need—Walking alongside the marginalized and learning from their wisdom.
- Seek greater service (Magis)—Constantly asking, How can I serve more fully?
- Remain open to mission—Being available to respond to the world’s greatest needs.
St. Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises inspire our work, reminding us that true service is about accompaniment, presence, and love in action.
IVC’s Vision for the Future
IVC envisions a world where older adults are highly valued for their life experience and where retired and semi-retired adults play a vital role in creating stronger, more compassionate communities through:
- Expanded service opportunities to meet growing societal needs
- A larger, more engaged corps transforming lives nationwide
Deeper partnerships with nonprofits, faith communities, and Jesuit institutions
Imagine IVC: Our 10-Year Strategic Vision
10 years from now, IVC is committed to:
- Doubling our corps to increase our impact
- Expanding into new communities in need of service
- Deepening spiritual formation for our corps members
From a small group of volunteers in Baltimore to a national movement of faith-driven service, IVC continues to answer the call to love, to serve, and to build a more just world.
Be Part of the Mission
Serve, grow in faith, and transform lives.
Strengthen your nonprofit
with IVC corps members.
Help us expand our reach and impact.