This program will run during winter break from January 3 through January 17, 2026.

January 3-5: Departure from Nazareth by bus to Toronto. Overnight flight from Toronto to Mumbai arriving the following day. Bus from Mumbai to the Maher Ashram in Pune.

January 5-13: Working and staying at the Maher Ashram in Pune. There will not be a day-to-day itinerary for this portion of the program as the Ashram's work can vary based on their own needs. Our group will travel to the state of Maharashtra, India, to work with and learn from the amazing community of the Maher Ashram, founded nearly 30 years ago by Sr. Lucy Kurien to empower rural communities and care for the vulnerable people of Pune. Maher has created a sustainable legacy of service, education, and transformation, gaining both national and international recognition. Maher is passionate about providing opportunities for individuals in India to have a life of dignity and happiness irrespective of caste, gender, or religion. During our time in Pune, we will visit a number of religious, cultural, and historic sites guided by our colleagues at the Ashram as a way to enhance our overall understanding and appreciation for the community we are in.

January 13-16: Following our departure from Pune, we will spend a couple days reflecting on our experience and taking in the sites in Mumbai. The group will enjoy a boat ride, a tour of the Elephanta Cave complex, and explore the vibrant Fort District of the city. 

January 16-17: Flights back from Mumbai to Toronto. Bus from Toronto back to Nazareth.

Program Fee: $2,700 before funding

Funding Sources:

For SPARK eligible students, you will receive the $1,500 SPARK Grant from the Center for Life's Work. Your final out-of-pocket cost will be $1,200.

For non-SPARK eligible undergraduate students you will be eligible for some funding from the Center for International Education. For graduate students, you will be eligible for some funding from the Graduate Office.

Program Fee Includes:

• Round trip airfare
• All program activities, excursions, & entrance fees
• All in-country transportation
• All accommodations
• All meals included in itinerary
• International travel and medical insurance

Does NOT include:

• Passport (apply for or renew your passport as soon as possible if you'd like to participate in this program. The current wait time for a passport is around 8-12 weeks.)
• Meals/snacks not included in the itinerary
• Miscellaneous expenses (souvenirs, spending money, etc.)

During this program students will stay on-site at the Maher Ashram. Space and resources are limited for volunteers and we will be asked to adjust to "group living." The rooms are basic, with single beds and ceiling fans. Baths/showers may have electric or solar powered heating and involve using a bucket to pour water over you. At the end of the program while in Mumbai, you will stay at a hotel close to the water.

Visit the following sites to see the recommended immunizations and medications for your program. Talk with your family and your physician to understand which ones you may need to travel. 

CDC 

Passport Health

U.S. Department of State

Step 1: APPLY NOW

Step 2: PRINT, SIGN AND DELIVER TO GAC 121

Please complete Step 1 and Step 2 of the application by September 19th for consideration. All students will be required to complete an online application and then schedule a brief interview. Acceptance emails will be sent out shortly after the completion of all interviews. The payment timeline will be shared with students once they are accepted into the program.