ELCA's Young Adults in Global Mission

From ELCA.org

Not written by Sara

Serve Globally, Be Transformed

The ELCA Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) program invites adults ages 21-35 into a transformative year of international service. As they walk alongside global companions, volunteers are shaped by the witness of neighbors and share in the ministries of partner churches and organizations.

Discover Purpose Through Service

A year of service invites young adults to embody Christ’s love, supporting ministries and projects in communities of need. This journey also provides space for deep reflection — exploring identity, God’s work in the world, and one’s own place within it all.

Walk Together in Faith and Justice

Serving in a spirit of accompaniment, participants practice mutuality and solidarity with global companions. Areas of service include ministry, education, human rights, health, and more — offering opportunities to confront privilege, poverty, and inequality through the lens of faith.

Mission work in Mexico

YAGM Mexico volunteers serve in secular schools and nonprofits dedicated to human rights, migration, sustainability and cultural preservation, often joining community organizing efforts around land, women’s and Indigenous rights.

Global Mission Application Requirements

Applicants must be 21-35 by the Discernment Interview Placement event in March. Married applicants apply separately and must be married by then. YAGM covers travel, housing, insurance, stipend and loan deferment support.