Program Summary

The African Immigrant Mentoring (AIM) program is a one-on-one, community-based mentoring program that matches young African immigrants and refugees in SE Portland with an adult mentor from the community.  Students selected for the program are those with the highest needs and who could benefit from having a positive role model.  Youth receive 12 months of mentoring and follow a service learning curriculum taught by project staff.  Those who complete 12 months of mentoring and the curriculum have an opportunity to be a peer mentor to new youth in the program and to have leadership opportunities on IRCO's African Youth Advisory Council.

Who is eligible for assistance?

The youth we serve are African immigrants or refugees, reside in SE Portland and are in grades 8-11.

Becoming a mentor for AIM

AIM is seeking energetic volunteer mentors interested in 8th-11th grade African immigrants who would benefit from interactions with a caring adult.  We are looking for volunteers who have experience working with youth and are patient, committed, flexible, creative, respectful and able to communicate in a diverse atmosphere.  Mentors must be willing to commit for a twelve month period, be 21 years of age and complete a background check.

Experience the satisfaction of helping a child mature, progress, and succeed.

If you are interested in this life-changing opportunity please contact the Program Coordinator at

(503) 253-4042 ext. 316

Tags: programs