Youth Mentor Volunteer

Launch Housing is seeking a Youth Mentor Volunteer to provide valued support to young people experiencing homelessness at the Education First Youth Foyer in Glen Waverley. The Youth Mentor will engage in social and recreational activities with a designated mentee, share knowledge and experiences, and help promote self-esteem and goal-setting.

Requirements

• An understanding of or a commitment to learn the Advantaged Thinking approach to working with young people and commitment to the program.
• Offer a generous and positive outlook and have the ability to explore and encourage others to follow their own interests.
• Have developed relationship skills, communication skills and be knowledgeable, while being able to engage and communicate in a non-judgemental manner.
• Possess self-awareness with regard to personal strengths and weaknesses: have an ability to ask for help and support, and to set boundaries.
• Demonstrate resilience, reliability and perseverance.
• Previous experience of working with young people or children OR a lived experience of being involved in Youth programs is highly desirable.
• A willingness to understand homelessness, and in particular, the needs and issues affecting people who or are experiencing, or are at risk of homelessness.
• Links to networks to support the mentoring relationships and program is highly desirable.
• Ability to commit to the volunteer role for 9-12 months.
• Demonstrated commitment to the values of Launch Housing and our mission to end homelessness.

Benefits

• Flexibility - you can organise your own timetable
• Life changing experience - you'll contribute to ending homelessness in Melbourne and will give you a sense of fulfillment and purpose
• Fun and positive environment - you'll meet warm and friendly team members who are here to help
• Good for your well-being and mental health - research says that volunteering can help fight stress, loneliness and depression and can help improve your confidence
• Share your talents - you can utilise your talent and experience as well as learn new skills in a supportive culture