Cultural Orientation Volunteers

Help guide refugees on the essentials of American life, from emergency services to local transportation. Your guidance will provide a warm welcome and a smooth transition, making a lasting difference in their journey toward self-sufficiency.

 

Scope of Work:

Help empower newly arrived refugees by teaching Cultural Orientation classes! HMI is seeking dedicated volunteers to join our housing team and support refugees in learning the essentials of life in the U.S. Our classes cover a wide range of topics, from emergency services and transportation to school systems, helping refugees to thrive in their new environment. Volunteers will also assist refugees in exploring their neighborhoods and provide follow-up support for those needing additional one-on-one assistance.


Time Commitment:

TBD

Please contact our team members for more information on this.


Responsibilities:

  • Facilitate small to large group instruction using the provided Cultural Orientation curriculum.

  • Collaborate with interpreters to effectively deliver instructional content to multilingual students.

  • Assist in orienting newly arrived refugees to their neighborhoods through classes and field trips to libraries, parks, clothing stores, grocery stores, and other community services.

  • Teach refugees how to navigate local transportation.

  • Provide follow-up support for individuals needing more assistance after Cultural Orientation classes.

  • Help develop new resources to introduce newly arrived refugees to U.S. customs, laws, and culture.

Qualifications:

  • Experience working with diverse populations.

  • Proven ability to demonstrate patience, understanding, and flexibility.

  • Experience in fostering a warm and welcoming environment in group settings.

  • Willingness to work with and take direction from HMI Resettlement staff.

  • Demonstrated ability to work independently in a multicultural environment.

How to Apply:

1. Complete our volunteer form.

2. Prepare a copy of your Driver’s License and Car Insurance to submit.

3. An HMI staff member will follow up with you, or you can send an email to our HR Coordinator, Sedef Altug at HR@hmir.org.