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Help Refugees Attain Self-Sufficiency
The mentor program aims to help refugees become self-sufficient by
providing friendship, encouragement, and moral support. These friendships
are invaluable in helping refugees adjust to a new language, culture, and
environment. The mentor program is an important piece of the refugee self-sufficiency
program at EIRS.
Why Your Help Is Needed
Many refugees come from countries and cultures that are very different
from ours. Often they don't have any friends or family in the United States
. They come alone and apprehensive and need someone who knows the local
customs to help them adjust to their new life. Refugees who have support
from North American friends attain self-sufficiency more quickly than those
without mentors. Mentoring is a rewarding experience, giving you the chance
to provide critical help to those in need. It's also a wonderful opportunity
to learn about another culture with its own fascinating customs, history,
and values.
Your Commitment
As a mentor, you agree to spend a minimum of 1 hour per week for
3 months meeting one on one with a refugee. Your aim is to become a trusted
friend and guide as the refugee begins dealing with the changes, challenges,
and stress that result from moving to a new country, home, school, and
job. As a mentor, you can provide encouragement and relief from this stress.
You Will Receive Support
EIRS recognized that mentors are an essential part our mission. We
work hard to provide you the information and support you need to do your
job effectively. Some of the resources available to you include:
- Cultural Orientation - You will have
the opportunity to learn about the refugee's culture and situation. You
will also receive information about the individual you are mentoring.
- Program Training and Support - You
will receive training on how to conduct your mentoring time - what to do,
where to go, and how to set up the visits.
- Regular Contact with your Coordinator - You will also have regular contact with your coordinator for problem solving
and information sharing.
- ESL Tutor Training - This English
as a Second Language (ESL) tutor training is available from your Coordinator
or from the Colorado Refugee ESL (CRESL) Program.
For more information, please contact Genevieve Cruz, EIRS Sponsorship
Director/Volunteer Coordinator, at 303-860-0128 Ext.1112 or email at Genevieve@ersden.org .
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