MTM Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about the MTM process? Here be answers!
Q. How does someone go about starting the process to become a MTM?
A. Complete our short online application form. Applicants will be quickly contacted for a Skype™ interview.
Q. Is there an application fee?
A. No, there is no application fee. However, if the applicant’s file is approved for a MTM assignment, there is a $600 training fee that can be raised as part of the MTM’s budget. This fee covers the training materials, 15-20 hours training time with your facilitator, and debriefing & evaluations upon arrival home. To offset the cost of providing administrative help, financial covering (receipts), budgeting assistance, and the creation of a web profile for each MTM, there is a one-time admin fee of $150. On top of the initial $750 training and admin fee, there will also be an administrative fee of $75/month during deployment for on-field support and check-ups.
Q. Is there an age restriction?
A. Must be 18 years or older at the time of departure.
Q. How long can one be a MTM volunteer for?
A. MTM assignments usually range in length from 2 months to 12 months.
Q. How is the mission destination determined?
A. MTM applicants may already have a location worked out. Alternatively, the assigned facilitator can offer suggestions after getting to know the applicant’s skill set.
Q. How long does the training process take?
A. Anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months. This is completely dependent on previous experience, missionary requirements, and context for the mission, as well as the applicant’s free time. Each successful applicant will begin by taking a preparation survey on our web site to determine the depth of his or her previous preparation.
Q. What is covered in the MTM training?
A. A better question might be, what isn’t covered? Check out the MTM Guide To Mission’s Table of Contents and Introduction here, it will speak for itself!
Q. Do MTMs go with a team or group?
A. No, the MTM program is designed for individuals, couples and families.
Q. Who guides the MTM candidate through the process?
A. MTM volunteers are partnered with trained facilitators in Canada right from their initial application, through their time on the field, and until completion of their debriefing upon return. While on the field, PAOC missionaries or national hosts will be the primary support for the MTM volunteer (e.g. organizing housing, on-field care and project objectives).
Q. How much money should be raised?
A. The budget is different for each country and is set by the facilitator with input from the host missionary and PAOC IM staff. It can range anywhere from $600/month to $1200/month.
Q. Can donors get tax receipts for donations?
A. Yes. The PAOC will issue receipts at year-end. All MTM Preparation Process Fees are also eligible for tax receipts.
Q. If the MTM has a good experience, is there another level of service they can move into?
A. Yes, a MTM with positive evaluations from their facilitator and missionary host can fast track approval into a long-term assignment.