Create Meaningful Change - Refugee Family Mentors Wanted in the Western Suburbs

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About us

In 2014, two compassionate women from different parts of the world came together to inspire positive actions and peaceful resolutions. Seeds of mutual respect, compassion, and love grew out of multicultural luncheons and ultimately blossomed into Building Peaceful Bridges (BPB). We pick up the resettlement process where the U.S. refugee resettlement agencies leave off. Our Vision is "bridging the hearts and minds of all people". We invite you to visit www.buildingpeacefulbridges.org to learn more about us.

The need

Our Mentoring/Sponsoring Program assists in family resettlement by establishing a community safety net, providing monthly visits, assisting in the citizenship process, and building trust, hope, resilience, and empowerment. Ultimately, refugees give back to their community and make the country stronger. We have impacted 200+ families, and currently provide comprehensive mentoring to 3 families. We hope to double our support this year. In pursuit of this, we are looking for Volunteers to support our Mentoring/Sponsoring Program.

We search for Volunteers that are highly adaptable and flexible, as no week will look the same. Our Mentors are compassionate people, nurturing by nature, and professional listeners. They frequently offer cultural counseling, education, tutoring, companionship, and a host of other friendly services.

What you will do

• Be a part of a team that mentors a refugee family.
• Meet with the family once a week (virtually, until face-to-face visits can be restored).
• Tutor English through regular conversation.
• Introduce and guide family members through new settings, systems, and cultural norms.
• Coordinate donated food, clothing, and household items as needed.
• Identify and request assistance in other areas such as education, social services, and community needs.
• Nurture and support the refugee’s experiences, and share skills that might benefit the family.
• Tailor your approach to each family’s dynamics and mitigate challenges.
• Become the refugee family’s "favorites" on their phones!

What you need

• A character that thrives on fluidity and exhibits adaptability.
• Proven ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Experiences and competencies in areas such as social work, counseling, and teaching are a plus.
• Language skills to include ESL training, or openness to be trained, and/or being conversant in other languages.
• An open mind, a global world view, a strong sense of humor, and a love for Charades!

Volunteer details

• Mentors give between 1 to 10 hours a week (or more if interested) and commit to 6+ months.
• All support is virtual, with the anticipation that face-to-face meetings will resume in the future.

What will you get?

This is an un-paid, volunteer position. Instead of compensation, our Mentor volunteers get to...

• Partner and train with experienced Mentor volunteers to develop the skills needed to make a difference in the lives of refugee families.
• Embrace and grow their passion for purpose, peace, and inclusion.
• See families gain a sense of belonging and flourish by their guidance.

How to apply

If you are looking to make a meaningful difference in the community, the state, the country, the world, then reach out to us today!

Please include the following information when you apply:

• A statement telling us why you want to be a Mentor volunteer for a refugee family.
• A snapshot of your relevant skills and abilities.
• A list of all languages spoken.