About the Program
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Silver Spring is seeking dedicated volunteer mentors to support English language learners, ages 11–24, who are newcomer youth living in Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties. Volunteers can choose from the following opportunities:

1. After School Programs (In-Person | Ages 11–18)
Volunteers help facilitate fun, English-based activities for middle and high school students in a safe and welcoming environment. You may support one or both of the following after-school programs:

  • Middle School Program (Ages 11–14): Wednesdays, 3:00–5:00 PM (starting early October 2025)
  • High School Program (Ages 14–18): Tuesdays, 2:00–4:00 PM (starting early October 2025)

2. Mentorship Program (Virtual/Hybrid | Ages 15–24)
Mentors support youth with academic and career readiness, helping them explore college pathways, build financial literacy, set goals, and connect with resources. There are two tracks:

  • High School Track (Ages 15–18): Meets virtually once a week on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, 4:45–6:15 PM. The high school track begins with in-person orientation the week of September 22–26 and runs for 10 weeks, ending the week of December 6.
  • Out-of-School Track (Ages 19–24): Offers a flexible virtual/in-person schedule arranged Monday through Friday. The out-of-school track begins with in-person orientation the week of September 22–26 and runs for 12 weeks, ending the week of December 20.

Both tracks include 1–3 optional in-person field trips in the D.C. metro area.


Volunteer Requirements

  • Complete and pass a background check
  • Attend one mandatory training session
  • Communicate regularly with IRC staff and caregivers about student progress and scheduling
  • Demonstrate consistent attendance and punctuality
  • Follow all IRC policies and program procedures

Key Support Areas
Volunteers may assist youth in the following areas:

  • After-School Support: Leading activities, helping with homework, and supporting English learning
  • College & Financial Aid: Supporting college applications, FAFSA, and scholarships
  • Career Exploration: Guiding students to explore jobs, training, internships, or apprenticeships
  • Academic Skill Building: Developing time management, goal setting, communication, and
    digital literacy
  • Understanding School & Work Culture: Discussing expectations in U.S. schools and workplaces
  • Goal Setting & Mentorship: Helping youth set and achieve academic or career goals
  • Resource Navigation: Connecting youth to ESL classes, test prep, and local opportunities
     

Desired Qualities

  • Culturally respectful and globally minded
  • Flexible, patient, and empathetic
  • Passionate about supporting youth success
  • Familiar with college and vocational pathways
  • Knowledgeable about the U.S. education system and financial aid
  • Comfortable using Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, virtual learning platforms, and tools like Google Translate

Bonus Skills

  • Multilingual abilities, especially in Spanish, Arabic, Dari, Pashto, Kinyarwanda, Kirundi, French, or Haitian Creole

How to Apply:

Volunteers can apply for this opportunity here.