It is your responsibility to get the Reference Form to your references.  We suggest you email it to them as an attachment, or give them a link to our site so they can download it directly.  Alternately, you can print a hard copy and mail or give it to your references.  We must receive your reference forms by February 15. 

You must include a non-refundable $35 application fee (payable by check or money order made out to Winant and Clayton Volunteers), and two (2) passport-sized photos of yourself with your completed application.  If you will need Financial Aid in order to participate, request an application from the WCV office by email.  You will be asked to declare the portion of the anticipated budget of $3,500 that you can raise on your own. 

Each applicant will be interviewed.  In New York the interviews will be held in February; if you are outside New York City, a former Winant who lives near you will conduct the interview.  In some cases, there will be a phone interview.  The Selection Committee meets in early March, and all applicants are notified whether they have been selected or not by March 15th.   Your acceptance must be in writing and accompanied by a non-refundable $100 deposit, due by March 31st.

 Learning to deal gracefully with challenging situations is an integral part of being a Winant.  Volunteers who are prepared to take the rough with the smooth will get the most out of their summer in London.

• Please be sure that your schedule is clear of any obligations for the full nine weeks of the program, which includes 7 weeks of work at a community placement, and 2 weeks of independent travel.
• The 2010 summer program begins around June 10th in New York, and volunteers usually return August 16th.
• All of our placements require physical stamina.
• Provided accommodation will likely be in an independent dorm-type setting.  Occasionally two Winants might share a room with two single beds.
• Prospective volunteers should be aware that while many placements have a long-standing partnership with the WCV, others may be brand new.
• All placements entail challenging work in community-based programs.  Those who understand the value of service and have a desire to learn (not dictate) will gain the most from their experience as a Winant.
• In the event that an issue – whether at the placement, accommodation or with interpersonal relationships – does arise, the Winant volunteer will have support available.  Assistance and advice may be sought from the placement supervisor, the U.K. link person, or the U.K. coordinator.