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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.
How It Works
Youth are paired with a mentor and meet weekly or at an agreed upon frequency for about a year. Before starting the program, youth participants will meet with the Youth Mentoring Program Supervisor to discuss how this program can help them accomplish their goals. Helping the mentee and mentor have a meaningful collaboration during their time together.
As a Mentor You Could Provide
- Academic support and college preparation
- Homework help
- Career development
- Training opportunities
- Assistance in applying for financial aid and scholarships
- English language practice
- Assistance with understanding culture immersion
Interested in Becoming a Mentor
- To become a mentor or find out more information please fill out form below.
- An informational session can be scheduled in the form below to answer questions.
- Applicants must 18 Years old and be willing to complete background check and participate in an interview.
- Participate in training sessions
- The general commitment for this pairing is one year.
- Refugee youth and mentors also have the opportunity to partake in monthly social activities with other program participants.
Behzan and Qais,
"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.