Mentor a New American

• Meet with mentee in-person weekly for minimum of 3 months
• Listen and provide support
• Introduce community opportunities available in the Twin Cities
• Demonstrate patience while mentee begins to understand U.S. culture
• Demonstrate patience while you begin to understand mentee’s culture
• Log volunteer hours and description of weekly activities in VicNet (training provided)
• Communicate proactively with Volunteer Coordinator – identify and share successes and challenges faced by mentee

• Patient, flexible, adaptable and resourceful
• Good cross-cultural communication skills
• Knowledge of community resources and events
• Available to volunteer weekly for minimum of 3 months
• Must complete background check

• Mandatory Mentor Training: 2 hours
• Weekly in-person visits with mentee for a minimum of 3 months
  • Average of 2-3 hours or more per week, especially during the first few weeks
  • Meetings are flexible, as mentors can set their own schedule with their mentee.

Mentors attend a required in-person training where they will learn more about the International Institute of Minnesota, clients served, and what they can expect as a mentor.

Mentors make a difference in the life of their mentee, while also learning and growing themselves. Mentors will learn more about the culture of their mentee, develop leadership and communication skills, and gain a new perspective of the world.