Refugee Student Mentor

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We are seeking motivated, compassionate volunteers to take part in our Home Mentoring Program. As a mentor, you can offer a resettled refugee student in the Cleveland area much needed academic support, greater confidence in English language skills, and new windows into American culture and the community. Volunteer mentors are matched with a refugee student in grades K-12 and spend two hours per week over the course of the year to provide one-on-one tutoring, ESL coaching, and mentorship. Mentors play a critical role in the lives of these newcomer students, empowering them to successfully navigate social and academic challenges in their new community, and find a sense of belonging. Mentoring takes place at the student's home, with opportunities to plan outings for cultural and community exploration. Mentors are also invited to participate in creative and social programming during the year for students and their families in collaboration with staff and other volunteer mentors.

Our mentors come from a range of backgrounds and skills but share a commitment to welcoming our newest community members. Volunteer mentors have the opportunity to make a lasting difference to a refugee family and make them feel truly welcome in this new country they call home. Mentors get a unique window into the cultural practices and rich customs of families from countries as far as Burma, the Congo, Somalia, and others, right in their own backyard. Mentors also benefit from opportunities to expand their social and cultural ciricles with other mentors and families through community potlucks, mentor socials, workshops, and other cultural and educational programming throughout the year.

Those interested should Register and attend an Information Session to learn more about our work, the population we serve, and how to get involved.