Why Iceland?

We get this question a lot. Since 2016, Compass has been taking students and leaders on trips to the land of northern lights, geysers, and (no joke) incredible hot dogs. But what is it that brings Compass to Iceland?

Compass believes that the culmination of understanding one's purpose comes through justice and service. When we travel to Iceland, we partner with the Salvation Army, which has several locations throughout the country. Within Iceland, the Salvation Army is both an active church and a refuge for those in greatest need. At their headquarters in Reykjavik, the Salvation Army serves several hundred professionally catered meals daily. They operate multiple clothing stores throughout the country and provide addiction and education support spaces. 

Iceland has a large population of immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. Our Icelandic partners are on the front lines, providing them with everything they need for this tumultuous chapter in their story. Compass groups work with and alongside individuals from all over Scandinavia, Europe, the Middle East, South America, and Africa. 

WHAT DOES COMPASS DO?

Our approach to international service is that we do whatever is needed of us. The frontlines of compassion services present ever-changing needs. Whether it's sorting clothing donations, running a summer camp, serving meals, or providing free workshops in arts and sports — Compass is in constant communication with our Icelandic counterparts. We prepare each group for the specific work that's needed when we arrive. 

Since 2016, we've been inviting participants to join in the incredible and beautiful things happening in Iceland  (and we're not just talking about the northern lights!). We consider ourselves partners in the work and witnesses to the Light that thrives in Iceland.

LEARN MORE:

  • Visit: The Salvation Army Website.

  • Watch: And Breathe Normally This Icelandic film (with English subtitles) depicts the plight of a woman fleeing violence who ends up, unexpectedly, in Iceland. It is filmed on location right where many Compass groups often end up working. Available on Netflix. Note: this film includes mature content. 

  • Watch: Pardon My Icelandic with comedian Ari Eldjárn. It is a good laugh and viewers will also learn some fun tidbits about Iceland and Icelandic culture. Available on Netflix.

  • Listen: Sigur Ros is a world-famous Icelandic band. They created a documentary called Heima that follows them as they perform in small villages all throughout Iceland. Heima is an Icelandic word that has no direct English equivalent but roughly equates to 'a sense of being at home.' 

  • Read: Fill out this form to receive some of our favorite Iceland travel tips.