Higher Ground Youth and Family Services
Volunteer Non US Citizen
Yes
Categories:
Spanish Language Preferences:
Location Details
Description
Higher Ground is a mentoring program for youth and families living in under-resourced communities. Our families are dealing with all the challenges of systemic poverty including gangs, drugs, domestic violence and human trafficking. Living in disadvantaged communities limits choices so the goal of HG is to level the playing field for these youth and bridge the opportunity gap. Our mission is to facilitate exploration and discovery of life’s possibilities through mentorship, as we expand purpose and possibilities for youth and their families. We also offer a number of parenting programs such as ESL, computer literacy, and workforce development as well as a robust mental health and wellness program that is available to all.
Student Role
Summer interns are positive role models to our youth. They will be engaging in a wide range of activities with our youth ages 7 – 17. This includes all sports, dance, music, fine art, digital arts, gardening, food prep/cooking, cheer, and more. When school is in session, we also provide homework help and tutoring. For our teens, activities include college prep. Field trips occur throughout the summer for all participants. An effective mentor is a good listener, trustworthy, caring, responsible and positive. Mentors inspire children to achieve goals and dreams and should provide youth with ideas for personal growth through new opportunities and challenges.
Work Schedule
Our afterschool program runs from 2:00 pm – 6pm Monday through Friday. Summer camp is from 10:00 am 6:00 pm Monday through Friday.
Orientation
All staff, interns, and volunteers are required to attend a formal virtual orientation and complete the following before working with our youth: a LiveScan background check (for those over 18), Sexual Harassment Training, and Mandated Reporter Training. Weekly supervision will be provided by our Program Director.
Housing Information
Students will likely stay at a nearby University or Airbnb and take public transportation to their site each day.
Spanish Language Proficiency
Not Applicable
Other Language Proficiencies
Not required, but beneficial to have some knowledge in Spanish.
Background Check
Fingerprints
Drivers License
No
Student Preferences
Passion for working with youth and understanding of trauma-informed engagement.