Since its beginning in 1977, ARC has been staffed by 5-7 stipended volunteers who live on-site in community and offer as their ministry the gift of hospitality to guests. Typically they are people who desire to live simply, sustainably, and spiritually while performing the many forms of service that provide the warm and welcoming atmosphere for which ARC has become known.
Five positions comprise the residential staff: Executive Director (fundraising, development, vision and mission), Operations Manager (day to day administration), Facilities Manager (buildings and grounds), Kitchen Manager (oversight of meals served), and Housekeeping (cleaning and laundry). The first three require a commitment of 3-5 years, the last two, a one to three year commitment. In addition to room and board and the stipend (which varies based on experience and length of stay), health insurance is provided for these full-time workers. Their work is supplemented by office support staff, monthly interns, and part-time hourly cooks and housekeepers as needed, as well as a host of willing short-term volunteers.
Each staff member has a clearly-defined area of responsibility but cross-training is encouraged as work is frequently performed in teams. Housekeeping and kitchen report to the Operations Manager, who in turn reports to the Executive Director. The Facilities Manager also reports to the ED.
Interns may apply for month-long stints. They may be assigned to their area of greatest interest and experience, or they may perform a variety of tasks. The application process is essentially the same for an intern as for longer-term positions. Interns receive room and board but not health insurance. A small honorarium is given, typically at the end of the stay.
In addition to the work required to welcome guests, staff and interns are required to attend weekly scheduling meetings and other staff meetings. Shared daily worship, meals, physical labor, and outings help to foster a sense of community among residents.
Qualities desired in those seeking employment at ARC are: commitment to an established daily spiritual practice, the sense of a call to service to others rather than personal fulfillment, emotional maturity, good relational skills, and the ability to meet one’s primary needs independently of a close supportive network of friends. ARC is somewhat isolated geographically, so staff must have inner resources for filling time away from work. Candidates must also be able to work cooperatively with others who have differing backgrounds, tastes, or beliefs.
ARC’s vision commits employees to belief in the full equality of all people, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation or gender identity, religion, ethnicity, and physical ability. Applicants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the vision and mission found on the "Mission" page of this site prior to approaching ARC.
Current Community Openings
Kitchen Manager starting in March 2012 - One to three year commitment
Intern starting in May 2012 as well as several subsequent dates - One to three month commitment
STEPS to follow in requesting consideration for a residential position at ARC:
The optimal process is an organic one, where acquaintance with ARC and the current community is built over time.
- Read through the ARC website to learn more about the mission and programs of ARC. Email ARC (arcretreat@hotmail.com) with a brief (2-3 paragraph) description of yourself and why you feel drawn to ARC at this time in your life.
- Fill out the first part of our application (background, but not references or essay questions).
- If you and the director or operations manager both agree to pursue the process, you will be invited to have an informal interview over the phone. You will be asked general questions about your background, spiritual practice, skills and availability, and you may ask more questions about ARC. Job descriptions for specific positions can be sent on request.
- If possible, visit ARC several times, beginning with a day of retreat followed by a volunteer experience. During this time you can experience what ARC offers guests and get to know the community, the work, and the lifestyle.
- If you and the director or operations manager feel that the fit may be a good one, you will be asked to complete the essay portion of the application and submit three written references.
- Go through an in-depth interview with the director or operations manager. (This may happen before Step 5 in the course of a volunteer experience also; or by phone, if distance precludes multiple visits prior to acceptance.)
Keep in mind that a place may not be open at the time you hope to come, but openings arise as staff depart. For that reason, promising candidates will be encouraged to pursue the process even though an opening is not immediately available.
Remember, too, that living and working in a retreat center bears little resemblance to being on retreat. Those who find most joy in serving here do so because they love to offer what they themselves have experienced.
