September 2026, UMVIM, SEJ News

New “Ways to Serve” Tool Available at UMVIM.org

Many consider UMVIM one of the best kept secrets of the United Methodist Church. Thousands of volunteers participate in mission journeys every year.

But what about those who don’t know what UMVIM is, and are just looking for the best place to serve, or those feeling overwhelmed by the number of options and need help?

A new “ways to serve” tool is now available at umvim.org which can help those unfamiliar with UMVIM and partner agencies find the best place to serve, whether that is with a team, or on an individual basis. It is a simplified way to navigate the many mission opportunities available from UMVIM and our ministry partners.

You can explore this new tool at umvim.org/waystoserve or by clicking here. You can also find a link in annoucement bar at the top of umvim.org for easy navigation.

UMVIM, SEJ Financial Update from Matt

In January, I shared a financial update concerning UMVIM, SEJ and the many changes going on in the United Methodist Church. UMVIM, SEJ does not receive apportionment funds and relies on Annual Conferences, churches, and individual donors for it’s financial support.

While our financial sitation has been helped by several one-time gifts, the fact remains that UMVIM, SEJ needs sustainable funding in order to continue its ministry. We know that many Annual Conferences are still assessing their financial help after the wave of dissaffiliation several years ago.

UMVIM, SEJ is looking to churches to help continue this ministry with on-going financial support. In turn, UMVIM, SEJ is developing several new resoures for churches, including a new missional small group model. We will announce more details as work progresses.

If your church is interested in stepping up to help UMVIM, SEJ, please contact me at matt_lacey@umvim.org to explore possibilities.

-Matt

Rev. Matt Lacey, Exec. Director, UMVIM, SEJ

UMCOR Grant Helps Churches Explore Solar Energy

Through a new pilot program led by Global Ministries Environmental Sustainability and UMCOR U.S. Disaster Response, churches who offer community-based services can now learn how to implement solar and/or battery storage so they can stay open when a disaster or power outage disrupts their normal operations.

Churches accepted for this new pilot program will receive comprehensive guidance in using these technologies, and some may be eligible for grants to purchase solar and battery systems.

Click here for more information.

New 2026 Edition of Team Leader Handbook Now Available in Electronic Copy

As a part of our 50th anniversary, UMVIM is seeking potential mission team leaders, under the age of 35, to be a part of our “Train 100” program, which seeks to train 100 new mission leaders under 35 by the end of 2026.

Details are in the graphic above, and if you have any questions, contact Matt at matt_lacey@umvim.org