The Refugee Women's Initiative, at the International Institute of Minnesota, is looking for volunteers who are interested in partnering as a mentor and friend with newly arrived refugees. The Refugee Women's Initiative was started 3 years ago and has helped to build over 90 mentor/mentee friendships. Mentors help their friends handle the day-to-day demands of life in the U.S., minimize their sense of isolation, and help them to understand American culture. Some of the tasks they assist with are filling out job applications, looking for housing or daycare, sorting through bills and junk mail, or finding a doctor or dentist. They may also help with tutoring English or may simply introduce them to some of the community events and resources around the city that they may not be aware of - libraries, museums, parks, free concerts, etc. Mentors make a commitment of 6 months and meet with their friend once a week for the first 6 weeks and every other week thereafter. RWI mostly matches women with women, but we do match men with men, and couples with couples. At this time, we have a particular need for male volunteers. Mentor training is provided and takes place at the International Institute of Minnesota in St. Paul. The next mentor training is June 23rd from 5:30 to 9:00pm. For more information, contact Jane Kramer, Project Coordinator at 651-647-0191 ext.348 or by email at [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Jane Kramer, Project Coordinator Refugee Women's Initiative International Institute of Minnesota 1694 Como Ave. St. Paul, MN 55108 651-647-0191 ext.348 [EMAIL PROTECTED] _____________________________________________ NEW ADDRESS FOR LIST: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, modify subscription, or get your password - visit: http://www.mnforum.org/mailman/listinfo/stpaul Archive Address: http://www.mnforum.org/mailman/private/stpaul/
