Iona in Mission is a student-led educational service immersion program that can take place over a weekend or up to two weeks for all members of the Iona College community. This unique learning experience breaks down the walls of the classroom and offers students the opportunity to serve those most in need and become immersed in a radically different culture. Iona in Mission provides students with the chance to integrate academia and faith in real life situations while they explore economic, social, political and environmental issues throughout the United States and the developing world. Come see the world and serve on an Iona in Mission project!

Please contact tdinome@iona.edu for more information.

Projects 2011-2012

I'M Camp Viva, New York
November, 2011
Take an HIV/AIDS 101 course and learn about the reality of this disease. Share your time, talents and skills with children and families affected or infected with HIV/AIDS at the Camp Viva reunion.
Earn one college credit.
Estimated Cost: $100, plus credit charge
Application/Deposit Deadline: Must sign up for course ASAP roster is limited.

I'M Bonita Springs, Florida
January 8-14, 2012
Students will partner with the Los Hermanos, visiting The Coalition of Immokalee Workers to learn about the reality that migrant workers face on a day-to-day basis.  They will spend time at the daycare center, visit local schools, and hear the first-hand stories of migrant workers. 
Estimated cost $650
Application/Deposit Deadline: 9/23/2011

I'M Salem, West Virginia
January 8-14, 2012
At Nazareth Farm, students will learn about the economic challenges of Appalachia and engage in service opportunities such as constructing homes and visiting community members. This week long retreat experience will focus on the elements of simplicity, community, prayer, and social justice.
Estimated cost: $325
Application/Deposit Deadline: 9/23/2011

I'M Cochabamba, Bolivia
March 10-18, 2012
Students partner with Los Hermanos in Cochabamba, Bolivia, working in the community, visiting families and a nearby orphanage. The team will learn about the rich indigenous culture and environmental sustainability projects in the area.
Estimated Cost: $2,000
Application/Deposit Deadline: 10/14/2011

I'M Santa Fe, New Mexico
March 11-18, 2012
In partnership with Los Ninos, students will visit indigenous communities and contribute to cultural restoration efforts in local and native communities. They will gain a cultural understanding of Navajo life through rituals such as Bear Dances and Pow Wows while reflecting on the history and realities of modern life on reservations in the United States. 
Estimated Cost:  $1500
Application/Deposit Deadline: 2/4/2012

I'M New Orleans, Louisiana
March 12-19, 2012
Hurricane Katrina is over, but hardly forgotten. Bring hope to the people of New Orleans by working with Camp Restore. The organization utilizes local and national volunteers to rebuild the homes of the elderly, disabled, or uninsured victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Estimated cost: $650
Application/Deposit Deadline: 10/14/2011

I'M Chicago, Illinois
May 14-20, 2012
The Brother David Darst Center provides students with the opportunity to explore issues of social justice through personal experience of direct service and urban immersion at shelters, food banks, residential care facilities, and other similar agencies. Each day the team will reflect and critically analyze their "call to serve." 
Estimated Cost: TBA
Application/Deposit Deadline: 2/4/2012

I'M Ware, Massachusetts
May 15-19, 2012
At the interfaith Agape Community, students will learn about sustainability, organic gardens, vegetable oil fueled cars, straw bale houses, compost toilets, solar energy and wood stoves for cooking and heating. Simplicity becomes a reality.
Estimated cost: $200
Application/Deposit Deadline: 2/4/2012

I'M Lusaka, Zambia
May 15-29, 2012
Participants work as a servant-learner, immersing themselves in the African culture and customs while working alongside The Christian Brothers and community members on the educational initiatives.
Estimated cost: $2,700
Application/Deposit Deadline: 11/4/2011

"My experiences at Agape have helped me in opening my eyes and my heart, looking at the world in a completely different way."
- Gabrielle Witt, Class of 2013

"Experiencing the culture of a nation, the spirit of each village, and the stories of each individual person left me amazed by the strength of the Zambian people, and inspired to do and see so much more of Africa and the world."
- Kimberleigh Costanzo, Class of 2014

"The pure gratitude of the people living [in New Orleans] was relentless and sincere. [It] was one of the best decisions I made since I set foot on Iona’s Campus."
- Mike Petre, Class of 2012