Refugee Youth Mentoring Program
Mentor Position Description

Program Overview

The CCS UT Refugee Youth Mentoring Program connects caring adult volunteers with refugee and immigrant youth to support their academic success, social-emotional development, and community integration. Mentors provide encouragement, guidance, and friendship while helping youth build confidence, develop life skills, and pursue personal goals.

Through a structured mentoring relationship, mentors become part of a supportive network of adults committed to helping youth navigate school, community life, and future opportunities.

Mentors are supported by CCS program staff and participate in training, match support, and ongoing supervision throughout the mentoring relationship.

Mentor Role and Responsibilities

• Take the lead in developing a supportive, trusting mentoring relationship with a youth participant.
• Serve as a positive role model and dependable adult.
• Encourage youth to explore interests, build skills, and develop confidence.
• Support youth in identifying personal, academic, or future goals.
• Participate in activities that support relationship building, learning, and positive youth development.
• Practice active listening and culturally responsive communication.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries with mentees.
• Communicate regularly with CCS program staff and seek guidance when needed.
• Follow all CCS mentoring program policies and safety guidelines.

Time Commitment

• Commit to a minimum of one year in the program.
• Meet with the mentee approximately two to four times per month.
• Maintain regular weekly communication when possible (text, phone, or check-ins).
• Attend required mentor orientation and training.
• Participate in periodic mentor support meetings or learning opportunities.
• Attend optional program group activities and events when available.

Participation Requirements

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Complete the CCS mentor application and screening process.
• Pass required background checks including criminal history and child safety registry checks.
• Provide personal references.
• Participate in a mentor interview with program staff.
• Complete mentor training and orientation prior to being matched.
• Commit to maintaining consistent contact with mentee and program staff.
• Follow CCS program policies regarding youth safety, communication, and confidentiality.
• Be dependable, responsible, and respectful of cultural differences.
• Have reliable transportation if mentoring activities require travel.

Desired Mentor Qualities

• Good listening skills.
• Patience and flexibility.
• Reliability and consistency.
• Encouraging and supportive attitude.
• Respect for cultural differences and diverse life experiences.
• Interest in youth development and learning from young people.
• Willingness to learn and receive feedback from program staff.

Mentor Benefits

• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in a young person’s life.
• Personal growth and cross-cultural learning.
• Training in youth development, mentoring, and communication skills.
• Support from CCS program staff throughout the mentoring relationship.
• Participation in program events and mentor community activities.
• Recognition of volunteer service.

Mentor Screening and Onboarding Process

• Submit a written mentor application.
• Participate in an interview with CCS program staff.
• Provide two to three personal references.
• Complete required background and safety checks.
• Attend mentor training and program orientation.
• Be matched with a youth based on interests, goals, and availability.
• Receive ongoing support from CCS mentoring program staff.

WHO IS MY SUPERVISOR?  Saham Mohamed, Youth Mentor Coordinator, will be your supervisor. If you have any questions about what’s been explained, don’t hesitate to contact her by phone at her office line (801) 428-1339 or on her cell phone (385) 409-1088. You are always welcome to communicate via email as well at smohamed@ccsutah.org.