What are the requirements to apply?

1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old by the time the group departs from Canada to Malawi.

2. Health: Your health must be stable and suitable for travel and volunteer activities.

3. Church Affiliation: You need to be a member (baptismal) of one of the Reformed churches in the Timotheos donor base.

4. Responsibility: You are responsible for your own safety and well-being during the trip. Timotheos Canada/USA does not provide insurance coverage for the trip and cannot be held liable.

5. Testing: You’ll be encouraged to complete a DISC personality test to enhance self-awareness and teamwork.

6. Fundraising: Volunteers are asked to raise an additional $1,250 CAD / $1,000 USD to support Timotheos’s work in Malawi.

What is the Cost of the trip?

Here is an approximate breakdown of costs for the trip:

• $3000 - Ticket (This cost is due to the application process and is tax-deductible.)

• $600 - Groceries (Based on 3 weeks of meals.)

• $1,000 - Excursions/Car rental/etc.

• $1,250 - Timotheos Donation

• $400 - Miscellaneous (Souvenirs, VISA, malaria pills, etc.)

The amounts are estimated in Canadian dollars.

What Vaccinations Do I Need?

Each team member is responsible for managing their own vaccinations. While vaccinations are not mandatory to enter Malawi, it is recommended to consult with a travel doctor or local health department at least 4-8 weeks before your trip to ensure you have sufficient time for the shots to take effect.

For the summer 2025 trip, vaccinations should be completed within the first 2 weeks of June.

For more information, you can refer to the following websites:

• CDC Travel Health

• International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers - World Immunization Chart

• Public Health Agency of Canada - Travel Vaccines
  

Is there an information evening before I apply?

Yes, there will be a non-committal orientation evening hosted via Zoom on January 27, 2025 at the following times:

• 5pm PST

• 6pm MST

• 8pm EST

If you are interested and would like to join, please email us so we can send you the Zoom link. All applicants are requested to attend.

I would like to join the meeting for more information.

When do I need to apply by?

February 15, 2025

When will applicants be notified?

February 28, 2025

I have been selected, now what?

As a team member, you will be required to attend approximately 5 Zoom meetings starting in March and ending a week before you leave for Malawi. Attendance at these meetings is mandatory.

The purpose of these meetings is to prepare you for engaging with a culture affected by poverty and corruption, and to ensure you're well-informed about what is expected of you while in Malawi. The topics covered will include:

• Packing instructions

• Budget items

• Cultural training

• Preparing to share Bible stories

• How to engage with children while playing Malawian games

These sessions are designed to help you feel well-prepared and confident for your time in Malawi.