Afghan Refugee Youth Mentorship

Written By Tonia Graff

Our program serves Afghan men and women between the ages of 15-24, who were evacuated by the US Government after the fall of Kabul. Many were evacuated with their families during that period, some came later. All have legal immigration status and are ORR-eligible for services provided by the Afghan Supplemental Appropriations Act. The act provided funding for various agencies, including the Department of State and the Department of Defense, to support Operation Allies Welcome and related efforts, such as relocating individuals at risk due to the situation in Afghanistan.

In most cases, a member of their immediate family aided US Military in Afghanistan, including acting as translators, security patrols and paramilitary support. Afghan refugees arrive with limited English and are generally unprepared for our highly structured, fast-paced American lifestyle.

Mentors build confidence by spending time with their mentee, teaching life skills and helping youth get to know Austin. Basic computer instruction, English conversation practice, and guidance on how to search online for entry-level jobs are all wonderful ways to share your time. Tutoring in English and Math will be important for younger people who are still in high school.

This program is active and volunteer recruitment is ongoing. Mentorship is a very flexible opportunity, and anyone who has knowledge to share can mentor!

Mentorship Needs and Activity Examples

  • Academic Tutoring

  • English Conversation practice, in-person and online

  • Computer Skills (Emails, Documents, Slides, Translation tools)

  • College Application Prep: Prepping for TSI test, SAT test, applying at ACC

  • Vocational schools - how to find and apply (Example: Skillpoint Alliance)

  • Assistance looking for part-time jobs that work with a high school schedule

  • Fun Activities - Bowling, Halal pizza, picnics

  • How to use a public library - how to join, use public computers, print services, etc

  • Public transportation instruction - Planning a trip and practice riding CapMetro together (Example take the Pick Up service to the Kramer Metro station and ride to ACC Highland)

Enrollment is ongoing, we have many youth on our waiting list, ready to be matched.

Expectation Summary

  • Six month commitment

  • Six hours per month

  • Provide 3 references

  • Volunteer Background Check required

  • Tx Dept Family Protective Services training required

  • Get matched with Afghan youths ages 15-24

  • Online and In-person Mentor Orientation is available

  • Ongoing Gii program supervision for duration of the match

  • In-home visits and mentee transportation to/from outings, as necessary for activities

Express your interest
Tonia Graff
Next

Refugee Recruitment Fairs