Needs From: Volunteer Houston

CWS Houston is recruiting Volunteer Youth Mentors to support newcomer youth ages 15-24. Mentors will be responsible for facilitating once monthly group mentoring sessions with approximately 5 newcomer youth for a total of 6 months. Mentoring sessions are focused on social/emotional support, life skills, cultural orientation, financial literacy, and college or career readiness skills. Mentoring sessions also encourage peer support and social connection amongst group members.

Requirements: Volunteer Youth Mentors must be over the age of 25 years old and must be fluent in English. Prior experience working with newcomer youth is preferred but not required. CWS is prioritizing volunteers with lived experience as newcomers to the U.S.

Location: Mentoring sessions will take place either virtually or in-person depending on client needs and preference. Transportation assistance will be available to youth and mentors who participate in in-person mentoring.

In-person sessions will take place at CWS Houston office, located at:

6671 Southwest Fwy, Ste. 760,

Houston, TX 77024

Time Commitment: Mentors will be required to participate in approximately 8 hours of training prior to engaging in mentoring services. Mentoring sessions take place once per month for approximately 2 hours for a total of 6 months. Mentors will also be required to meet with their supervisor occasionally. Mentoring sessions will generally take place in the afternoons, evenings, or on the weekends depending on client and mentor availability.

Onboarding: Mentors must submit to CWS’ volunteer background check process before they are cleared to begin services.

Training & Support: Mentors will receive training on mentoring session curriculum prior to facilitating mentoring sessions. Mentors will receive ongoing support, training, and guidance from CWS Staff.

** We have an immediate need for Spanish Language volunteers to help us reach out to our clients via phone and help them fill out specific online forms.

On an ongoing basis, speakers of numerous languages (including but not limited to: Spanish, Dari, Arabic, French) are needed for in person and/or remote translation and interpretation to ensure refugees’ full understanding and participation in our programs and in the community. Document translation may be accomplished remotely and emailed to staff.

For more info., contact Rebecca Harrison rharrison@cwsglobal.org or go to www.cwshouston.org and fill out our volunteer application!

Our Afghan Support Groups in Houston promote health and wellness through separate men’s and women’s groups, as well as co-ed workshops. Sessions occur 1-2 times a week for two hours and provide a space for connection, skill-building, and community support.

Volunteers are needed to assist with child watch activities for children aged 1-5. This includes planning fun, engaging activities and supervising children so parents can fully participate in the sessions.

Your support helps create a welcoming and supportive environment for Afghan families. If interested, please reach out to Rebecca Harrison - rharrison@cwsglobal.org- for more details!