Refugees and others who have a special status arrive in the United States legally after being forced to flee violence and persecution. Once they arrive in Minnesota, LSS Refugee Services works to secure safe and affordable housing for them, offers employment services and empowers them to achieve self-sufficiency and agency. Mentors act as friends and neighbors to newly arrived refugees and support them as they navigate the challenges of resettlement.
Goal of Position:
To be a guide and friend for a refugee or refugee couple in their challenging first months in the United States. Each paring will involve setting 2-3 goals/focuses for the mentorship.
Sample Activities:
- Teach them how to ride the bus to their ELL class location, grocery store.
- Visit community resources, like the library, food shelves, and cultural organizations.
- Practice counting and using American currency.
- Teach the family how to make a money order and pay rent.
- Teach a refugee how to use appliances – laundry, stove and oven, thermostat.
- Help family members learn the English language by practicing with them.
- Help out with a job application or practice interview skills.
- Provide transport
Please Note:
A Case Worker works with each refugee for at least their first 90 days in the US. These first needs are called the “core services,” including housing, furniture, basic household items, medical care, social security, employment authorization documentation, school enrollment. Mentors are not responsible for these services.
Time Commitment:
Mentors make a commitment to meet at least once a week for three months. This has the potential for extension, if all parties are interested in continuing.
Scheduling:
At the discretion of the volunteer and availability of the refugee.
Worksite:
Varies, but will most likely be at the refugee’s home and in the community.
Qualifications:
Cross-cultural sensitivity, flexibility, patience, and a sense of humor. Ability to work with people with basic English proficiency. Interest in helping refugees with resettlement needs. An application, interview, and background check are required. Training and supervision are provided.
