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The ages for Young Church Service Missionaries is 18-25 yrs for men, 19-25 for women. Church Service Missionaries are ages 26+. Please visit this website for more information:https://www.lds.org/callings/
In brief, YCSMs work with their bishops to identify service mission opportunities. Often, a stake is given CSM assignments, many of which can be filled by YCSMs. YCSMs are called by the stake president, not the prophet. Once they are interviewed by their bishop and stake president, the application is sent to the Church-service coordinator in our area. The coordinator processes the call and a formal call letter is sent to the stake president. The stake president then formally issues the call. YCSMs are set apart by their bishop.
In the call packet, YCSMs are provided a handbook. This includes instruction on determining a daily missionary schedule, including scripture study, prayer, and other activities that prepare them spiritually for their service. The daily missionary schedule is meant to be close to or similar to a full-time proselyting mission experience as possible. The schedule is determined by the YCSM, parents, and the service coordinator. The bishop is to be kept informed on the schedule. A CSM-mentor is often provided to YCSMs to assist them in keeping to their schedule. The bishop is not expected to act as a pseudo-mission president.
YCSMs serve a minimum of 8 hours per week. Specifics of their work is defined by the church group or other organization they provide service for. Again the CSM coordinator identifies and establishes work hours in coordination with the YCSM and parents.
YCSMs are expected to live worthy of a temple recommend. They are encouraged to socialize with other young single adults and even date. When on dates, they are asked to not wear their missionary name badges. YCSMs can also continue their education goals as their time and circumstance allows.
Since they live at home, YCSMs are expected to fully participate in their home wards, including all Sabbath-day services -- Sacrament meeting, Sunday School, and Relief Society / Elders Quorum as appropriate. The bishop or bishopric counselor is encouraged interview them periodically to check on their well-being and service and experiences.
YCSMs are encouraged to hold ward callings as determined appropriate by local leaders with the understanding that such callings do not interfere with their church service mission.
YCSMs live at home, pay their own expenses, and ensure all travel needs.
I hope this helps. Much of the information above is found on the church website and some of it is from my speaking with the CSM department in Salt Lake. You are welcome to call them as well with questions: (801) 240-4914, Sis. Roach.
