We will be meeting with a representative from Bethany Christian Services to help the LGBTQIA+ refugees that will be arriving in Kalamazoo. Here is a list of volunteers needed:
Transportation Specialists:
Transportation Specialists are volunteers who, with 48-hour notice, can transport clients to grocery stores, doctor's appointments, job interviews/evaluations, etc. in their own vehicle. Mileage reimbursement rate will be disclosed on intake.
Transportation Specialists are required to pass background checks and have current car insurance.
Transportation Specialist Volunteers commit to giving a 24-hour notice if they are no longer available.
New Neighbors - 1-on-1 Mentoring and ESL Tutors
New Neighbors Mentors and ESL Tutors are two separate types of volunteers. These single or partnered volunteers commit to mentoring or tutoring a single individual or couple for 5 hours a month.
This is a 6-month commitment.
(FOR NEW NEIGHBORS MENTORS) - Case Managers identify self-sufficiency goals with the client; New Neighbor Mentors encourage the client to work toward these goals and engage with the community, coworkers, and friends.
Move Crews
Move Crews are made up of volunteers who, with at least 48 hours notice from Bethany, are able to use their own vehicles to move furniture and donations and help set up homes (cleaning, arranging kitchen appliances).
No background check is needed, but volunteers must sign a liability waiver.
Support Group
Support Groups consist of 3-8 people. They will assist the Case Manager with a family from arrival to the program end date (total commitment: 6 months).
Some duties include greeting at the airport, cultural orientation, teaching the bus route, helping with some paperwork, and understanding technology, and transportation. The first 3 months are the most intensive; the second 3 months are far more relaxed, empowering Support Group to s form relationships with the family that will hopefully last much longer than volunteer commitment.
Support Groups appoint one group leader, who will communicate with the Community Engagement team and the Case Manager and do a weekly check-in for the first 3 months.
Support Group Members will need to pass background checks and attend an orientation with Bethany Staff.