Youth Mentorship Program
If you’re interested in volunteering as a Youth Mentor, please fill out our Volunteer Form here. Thanks!
Adjusting to life in America can be especially difficult for young refugees. As their families strive to become self-sufficient, many refugee youth need the stability that comes from additional support and meaningful engagement.
We believe that every youth deserves a positive environment to learn, grow, and come into understanding of who they are. Refugee youth are empowered through mentorship, cultural orientation, guidance, and friendship.
Youth mentors engage in one-on-one friendship with a refugee student, providing regular, ongoing support for one year. The mentor serves as a role model and advocate for a junior high or high school student, spending 2-3 hours per week meeting with one another. Participants in this program are often in need of additional social, academic, or emotional support as they transition to life in Portland. Youth students benefit from recreational activities, exploration of interests, goal setting, possible schoolwork help, and having a trusted friend.
Potential volunteers attend a Volunteer Orientation, fill out an application, and agree to a background check. Fill out our Volunteer Form here.