Amina and xx
PAIR's volunteers are amazing and committed people. Each week nearly 150 of them take the time to spend an hour or two with young refugees. In the process they change lives - and they are changed as well.
 
Meet a volunteer
Amina is one of these extraordinary people. She became a mentor in PAIR's new school-based individual mentoring program this year. Each Friday during lunch, Amina (pictured above on the left) meets with Mandi, a sixth grader from Central America. 

Why be a mentor?
Amina says she became a mentor because she "come[s] from a family of people who had to move from their home to find security." She "wanted to give back in a personal way to people leaving a place, leaving everything they know, and have known, to go into the unknown....It's so important to support them!"

What is gained? 
Though Amina's family comes from North Africa, half a world away from Mandi's roots, the two have quickly bonded. Mandi waits eagerly for Amina to arrive each Friday. Asked if she enjoyed the winter holidays, Mandi said "They were fun, but I missed Amina."
 
For Amina, getting to know Mandi "makes me grow." She encourages anyone thinking about mentoring not to delay. Every child deserves the opportunity to grow with the guidance and encouragement of a caring adult.

"You'll quickly notice how much impact you're having. Small gestures have a large impact! You are bringing happiness to a young newcomer and forming a lifetime bond. It's a very fulfilling experience."

Consider becoming a mentor
There are still many young refugees who need a mentor - an ally, a role model, a friend. Several times and places are available, and both high school and middle school students are eager to get to know a mentor. To learn more, please visit the PAIR website or contact Lauren West.
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