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Opportunity Details
Mentoring low-income, working families
This is a unique opportunity to partner one-on-one with families in our communities on their journey towards financial and housing stability, as well as improving overall well-being. Mentorship is critical to our program model. To maintain consistency and structure for families, mentors typically commit to 18-24 months of volunteering. We are looking for volunteer mentors in the following townships: Elk Grove, Palatine, Schaumburg, Wheeling.
The responsibilities of volunteer mentors are multifaceted, encompassing both practical assistance and emotional support. Here's a breakdown:
- Regular Meetings:
- Meet weekly or 3 times a month with the family for up to 2 years, adjusting to bi-weekly meetings in the second year.
- Meetings should last 1 hour or less.
- Building Trust:
- Meet in-person with the family to establish trust, preferably at their home or a familiar location like the public library.
- Utilize phone or Zoom meetings in case of illness or travel.
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Maintain confidentiality.
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Financial Guidance:
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Promote sound financial principles, including budgeting, debt reduction, and avoiding quick-fix schemes.
- Assist in creating and maintaining a household budget.
- Identify the most suitable budget format for the family's needs.
- Provide guidance on financial matters such as debt reduction, tax refunds, and planned expenditures.
- Brainstorm with the family to increase income and reduce expenses.
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- Addressing Additional Factors:
- Address factors beyond finances that impact stability, such as childcare, car maintenance and repair, relationships, physical and mental health of parent and child, and advocacy in the workplace.
- Encourage utilization of community resources.
- Goal Setting and Accountability:
- Help the family set short-term goals and develop actionable steps to achieve them.
- Hold the family accountable for progress toward their goals.
- Communication and Coordination:
- Maintain regular communication with the FamilyForward case manager.
- Request referrals and connections to additional resources as needed.
- Collaborate with volunteer mentor partner to provide consistent support
Other, Other - Other Community Priorities
Age Minimum (with Adult): 21+, Minimum Age:21+
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