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 willing to enter into a mentoring “friendship” with an asylum-seeking family in Portland. The father is from Angola and has a background in mechanics and logistics. The mother is from Haiti and has experience in cosmetology, housekeeping, and childcare. Together they have a wonderful 1 year old son. They both speak French and are learning English quickly- and would love a mentor who can help them progress further. They are also hoping for help with navigating housing & general support within their community for themselves and their son.
Interested in making a difference? We have a list of families waiting for mentors! Go to https://wtsmaine.com/mentors/#
