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Volunteer Mentors
Volunteer Mentors
Volunteer mentors have been the "heart" of Bridge Communities since its founding in 1988. Volunteer mentors provide the caring and encouragement necessary to foster the personal and economic growth that families need to achieve and sustain self sufficiency.
Mentors operate as members of a Bridge Communities' Program Partner group from their faith-based or community organization. Mentors are the primary contact in the client family's service team. This team is made up of the homeless family, volunteer mentors and professional case manager. Mentors typically work in a team of two or three volunteers.
Learn more about Mentor Training
Transitional Housing Mentors Help Homeless Families by:
- Participate in the initial Mentor Training sessions and ongoing educational opportunities sponsored by Bridge Communities.
- Collaborate with the Bridge Case Manager for ongoing assessment of family needs and progress.
- Provide hospitality and welcoming for client families new to the Program.
- Participate in the development of a Program Contract and Housing Contract between Bridge Communities, the Program Partner and the client family.
- Participate in the development of an individualized service plan that includes long and short term goals.
- Visit weekly (or as needed) with the client family in their home. Provide skill development in budgeting assistance, savings planning, and general money management.
- Arrange assistance in applying for jobs, education/training programs, and other community supports.
- Provide companionship, listening, spiritual and emotional support.
- Contribute household maintenance tips.
- Arrange parenting education or assistance.
- Provide guidance and sponsorship in scouting, library, park district, or other community-based recreational services.
- Arrange the connection with Program Partner support for furniture, child care, employment, transportation, home maintenance needs, etc.
- Report any unusual incidents to case manager.
- Maintain strict confidentiality and dignity in service delivery.