Mentor a couple from Ivory Coast

Description

What does mentoring look like? That’s up to you and the family. In less complicated times, we like our mentors to take a more hands-on approach to help mentees integrate into the community- such as including them in family outings & introducing them to the area. Currently, mentoring can be done while social distancing and some support can be provided remotely. Checking in regularly, sending along translated info regarding COVID-19, helping mentees locate resources- these are all things that can be done while maintaining safe distance. We still ask that anyone applying to mentor through WTS live local to the Portland area, so that you can begin an in-person relationship with your mentees once you feel safe doing so. 

Through Welcoming the Stranger, mentors have access to a large network of individuals and groups already engaged with the immigrant community who can offer support and guidance if specific needs — housing, schooling, medical care, etc. — arise. As a mentor, your primary task is simply to be there for newly arrived folks who would otherwise feel alone in a strange world. You don’t have to be an expert, just a friend.

 

Specifically, Welcoming the Stranger is actively looking for volunteers to support a couple from the Ivory Coast. They enjoy teaching, learning, reading and music. They are in need of housing, winter clothing, practicing English and legal assistance. They speak French, Spanish, and some English.