ReCONNECT, Catholic Charities’ Refugee Youth Mentoring Program, is actively seeking dedicated adults ages 18 and older to become long-term mentors for refugee students ages 15-24. The program’s next cohort kicks off on January 13th, following a mandatory training session.

Mentors play a vital role in supporting refugee youth as they navigate educational, career and social goals.”Because of my background in education, I understand how confusing the educational system could be for refugees that are trying to further their studies in the United States. I was recently able to help my mentee navigate his first semester at JCCC and become more self-sufficient as a college student,” said a volunteer mentor. “Being his mentor has been a great experience. I have gained knowledge, too – my mentee has given me so much insight into his home country of Ukraine.”

As a mentor, you will engage in regular communication with your mentee, meeting in-person once a month. “I had been searching for a way to volunteer and the opportunity to mentor someone new to this country immediately interested me. I have enjoyed developing a relationship with my mentee and his family, who are from Afghanistan. It’s been interesting to learn about their journey to the U.S. and the obstacles they face daily in a new country. It has been rewarding to learn about a new culture and to help someone settle into life in this country,” added another mentor.

Our ReCONNECT team also organizes exciting events every other month. Events have included sports games, college campus tours, ice skating, volunteer opportunities and more! If you are interested in helping us make a difference, please email [email protected].