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Youth Mentor Program
What We Do
The Youth Mentoring Program (YMP) helps refugee youth ages 15-24 reach their personal, academic, and career goals.
- You can make a lasting impact
- You will provide guidance, encouragement and support to help mentees reach their potential
- You will strengthen the community by fostering hope and resilinece
- You will gain personal fulfillment through meaningful connections and service
What Mentors Do:
- Youth are paired with a mentor and meet weekly with a mentee.
- Provide encouragement, guidance, and life skills development
- Help mentees set and work toward academic, career, or personal goals
- Be a consistent and positive role model in their life.
Who Can Become a Mentor
- Adults 18 years and older who are committed to supporting youth
- Individuals with a passion for helping others grow personally and academically
- Must pass a background check and complete training
- No prior mentoring experience is needed! Just a willingness to listen, support and encourage
- An informational session can be scheduled by clicking here
The Mentor Application Process
- Complete an interest form below
- Background check & screening - Schedule an appointment to complete the application to ensure safety and suitability for mentoring.
- Attend training - Participate in an orientation covering program expectations, relationship-building and best practices.
- Get Matched - Meet with potential mentees and match based on your preferences.
- Begin Mentoring - Start meeting with your mentee regularly, with ongoing support from program staff.
Support & Resources For Mentors
- Comprehesive mentor training before being matched
- Ongoing guidance from program staff
- Access to mentoring resources, workshops and community events
- Opportunities to connect with other mentors for shared learning
"Everything from getting a driver's license to going to college is a challenge when you're new to the US. Refugees are human, like everyone- We have our families, our dreams… we are so lucky to have Luke as a mentor;
he was the missing piece," stated Behzan.
More About This Service
Find Out More About Our Night Shelter
Find Out More About Our Community Food Pantry
Call us at 775-471-5831, or Email us to get started!
Contact Us
Office Hours
Monday – Thursday
6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Programs in Adult Education Services
Sign Up for the Meals on Wheels Program
If you would like to receive meals through our Meals on Wheels Program, please complete the application form below.
Please answer all questions on this referral application to be considered for the Meals On Wheels program.
Gallery
My name is Sairan. Fleeing Syria for a better life, I clung to my dream of becoming a doctor amidst chaos. Through the Refugee Youth Mentoring Program with Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada, I found hope. My mentor believed in me, guiding me to set SMART goals and offering emotional support. With her help, I saw my dreams begin to take shape. I am thankful for my mentor and the program's support as I move forward on my journey.
As a refugee mentee, my first Thanksgiving in the US was unforgettable, thanks to my mentor. Their generosity extended beyond the holiday, offering me a sense of belonging and joy. Spending time with my mentor and their family filled me with happiness and gratitude. Moreover, my mentor's support went beyond companionship; they assisted me in practical matters like opening a bank account, obtaining a DMV permit, and securing my first job. Reflecting on my experience, I wish all refugee youth could be as fortunate as I am to have such a caring and supportive mentor.
I was paired with a mentor she urged me to read more and practice pronouncing words correctly. I was motivated to work hard and aim for success by her will to succeed in getting into medical school. She showed me how to make a “to do list,” and how to prioritize it. One remarkable meeting that meant a lot for me was that she showed me around UNLV so I could be ready as a college student and get familiar with the campus. I felt supported and confident that I was not alone because I had a mentor, who I could always talk to when I needed to.
Yes, mentors from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to participate as they bring unique perspectives and experiences beneficial to mentees.
Mentors are expected to commit to regular meetings with their mentees, typically ranging from 1-2 hours per week, for a specified duration.
Preferences can be considered, but matching is based on various factors, including mentee needs and mentor availability.
Mentors are carefully matched with mentees based on shared interests, goals, and compatibility to foster meaningful and productive mentoring relationships.
No, it's not necessary. We only consider matching the youth refugee with a mentor if they have a basic understanding of English and can hold a conversation. However, in case of any need, we can arrange for an over-the-phone interpreter. Such instances are expected to be rare.
Yes, prospective mentors can attend an information session to learn more about the program and ask any questions they may have.