Interested in serving with Pioneers for up to a year through our Venture program? Great! We know that’s a big deal and there’s lots to talk about. But here are some of the questions people ask the most.
Length of a Venture Trip
Can I go on a shorter trip, maybe several weeks long, through Venture? What’s the typical timeframe for a Venture trip?
Venture trips must be at least one month long and can be up to one year, but the typical trip is 3-12 months. Accomplishing the objectives of the program typically requires at least three months.
Can I do a survey trip through Venture?
A survey trip is a way to visit a field before moving there. When someone goes on a survey trip in Pioneers, it usually means they have applied for and accepted a long-term appointment. Venture does not organize survey trips unless requested by a training coach or field leader.
Venture Placements
I don’t know what I want to do on the field but I’m available for a specific amount of time. Do you have opportunities for someone like me?
More than likely we have a place for you. We need to get to know you and find out why you are interested in Venture and what skills and interests you have.
Opportunities listed on our website will give you a sense of what’s possible.
How is placement determined?
After the interview, a Venture coach will contact teams that are potentially a good fit for someone with your skills and interests. This process usually takes multiple conversations back and forth. The team will review your application and references along with input from our staff. Your final acceptance will need their approval.
Can I contact someone on the field directly?
We do not give out contact information for field missionaries. After you have gone through the interview process and submitted your application and references, the Venture coach will begin connecting with field teams on your behalf. At this point, the field will have your contact information and may choose to communicate directly.
The Process
What is the process of joining the Venture program?
- Fill out a Start form
- Have an initial interview
- Complete application with seven references and a Bible knowledge assessment
- Complete psychological testing packet to be evaluated by a professional counselor
- Attend Explore
- Receive and accept appointment
- Work with Venture coach to find field placement
Explore, which is required for everyone who goes overseas for three months or more, is a week-long training and orientation program generally held in Orlando. Through Explore you will meet your Venture coach, receive specific training and connect with others who are applying to Venture or planning to go long term with Pioneers.
How quickly can I get through the process to go to the field?
You can go to the field as soon as you complete the necessary steps. These include:
- Attending Explore
- Working with a Venture coach to find a field placement
- Completing paperwork (including release forms, a background check, medical and insurance forms, etc.) and online training (covering support raising, biblical basis for missions, online security, child safety, etc.)
- Raising needed support (must be at 90% prior to purchasing airline tickets)
- Completing any requirements specified by field leaders
Typically, a participant can complete the process from interview to field departure in 6-12 months. The biggest factors are how quickly we can find a field team for you and how long it takes you to raise funds.
If you go for less than three months, you may not be required to attend Explore. If you are self-supported and have no additional training requirements, you may be able to get to the field more quickly.
Venture Requirements
What requirements does Pioneers have? Do I have to have Bible classes?
If you end up going long term with Pioneers, you will need to complete required Bible courses. Venture participants do not have to complete the Bible courses.
Is it possible to go on Venture without a college degree?
The Venture program has no specific requirement for education beyond a high school education.
Do I need a sending church to go on a short-term trip?
Partnership with the local church is one of our core values. Each Venture participant will need to have a sending church. The sending church endorses you and usually provides support and other help with preparation. They also pray for you and help you determine and pursue your next steps after returning home. The sending church can be any body of believers that meets regularly and provides you with spiritual oversight and support.
Can someone who is married go on a venture trip without their spouse?
We do not allow married individuals to go to the field without their spouses. We would recommend you go on a shorter trip with your church if you are seeking to gain mission experience.
Venture Finances
How much does Venture cost?
Costs vary greatly depending on the field. The Venture coach works with a field team to create a budget that is consistent with the location and how long you’ll be there.
Are there any paid positions?
It is very rare to find a paid position. All Venture appointees must raise their own support.
