CONNECTION TO MISSION: Teach skills that encourage self-sufficiency in all areas for young adults aged 15-24
LOCATION: Online or in client’s home; other sites possible.
TIME COMMITMENT: 1-2 hour meeting at least once monthly, more preferred, for 6-12 months. Schedule flexible based upon volunteer's and client's availability.
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
Strengthen mentee’s interpersonal and leadership skills and self-esteem
Help youth become engaged members of their communities through participation in civic and community service activities
Give academic support, including college application and achievement support
Enhance their career development skills and financial literacy skills
Understanding that each client’s story, personality, skills, background, and needs are unique, therefore each volunteer experience will be unique
RESPONSIBILITIES AND EXPECTATIONS:
Providing information: Mentors will work to provide students with up-to-date resources for social gatherings, academic support, career development, college readiness, and field trips
Meetings: Mentors cannot be alone with any children without either the child’s parent present or another staff member present. This includes in-office visits, field activities, and home visits
Keeping appointments: Mentors must keep appointments and respect the time of their student. Mentors are required to meet with their students in person two times a month in order to set goals, track student progress, and troubleshoot any issues. If mentors are not able to keep an appointment, they must notify their student at least 24 hours in advance.
Reporting – Mentors are required to immediately report suspicion or allegations of child abuse or exploitation
Transportation – Mentors cannot drive students in their personal vehicles unless youth is over 18 years old
Review the IRC Boundaries Policy again before your first visit and clearly define for yourself where yours are, including how & when you want to be contacted by the client
Report your Volunteer hours by the end of each month.
REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS:
Willingness to navigate awkward interactions, especially at the beginning.
Interest in working with youth newcomers to the U.S. from a variety of cultures and backgrounds
Must be able to mentor for a minimum of 6 months
Providing information: Mentors will work to provide students with up-to-date resources for social gatherings, academic support, career development, college readiness, and field trips.
Meetings: Mentors cannot be alone with any children without either the child’s parent present or another staff member present. This includes in-office visits, field activities, and home visits.
Keeping appointments: Mentors must keep appointments and respect the time of their student. Mentors are required to meet with their students in person two times a month in order to set goals, track student progress, and troubleshoot any issues. If mentors are not able to keep an appointment, they must notify their student at least 24 hours in advance.
Reporting – Mentors are required to immediately report suspicion or allegations of child abuse or exploitation.
Transportation – Mentors cannot drive students in their personal vehicles unless youth is over 18 years old
Must be flexible. Last-minute changes are expected when working with clients.
BENEFITS:
A gratifying experience that will likely result in an enriching friendship.
Receive a foundational knowledge of the U.S. resettlement program and the programs and services provided to refugees to help promote integration and self-sufficiency.
Support of the IRC staff throughout your volunteer experience.