Providing help and creating hope in Maine
Related Program: Refugee & Immigration Services
80 Sherman Street
Portland, ME 04101
The Language Access Volunteer will work both directly & indirectly with refugees and walk-in clients with varying levels of English proficiency. The Language Access Volunteer will support existing programs & departments to improve language accessibility.
The Language Access Volunteer will welcome refugees, interpret and translate materials in preferred languages. The Language Access Volunteer will assist adult English language learners and work to reduce anxiety about the resettlement process, creating a safe, supportive learning environment.
Key Responsibilities:
· Use language skills to interpret for Spanish speaking clients in various program areas.
· Help translate program materials for client/staff use.
· Create a safe and respectful environment that promotes clear communication.
· Use a variety of instructional strategies to engage immigrant clients with program content.
· Collaborate with Program Director/Assistant Director to assess linguistic needs of clients/program and monitor progress.
- Assist ILS Administrative Coordinator with data entry and USCIS correspondence.
Impact of Opportunity:
The Language Access Volunteer will improve language access for refugees by helping them understand program/agency materials. The Language Access Volunteer will embody the CCM core value of “hospitality” by “welcoming the most vulnerable and in need to an environment of dignity, safety, warmth and a sense of being home.” The efforts of the Language Access Volunteer will help RIS provide linguistically appropriate services.
Qualifications & Skills Required:
• Ability to approach cultural & age differences humbly from a place of learning.
• Commitment to ongoing self-reflection to examine privilege and prejudices.
• Willingness to learn from refugees and promote respect.
• Ability to build relationships and establish trust.
• Patience, flexibility, and dependability.
• Outgoing with excellent communication skills. Language skills helpful.
• Strong organizational, computer & writing skills.
• Experience and/or strong interest in working with people from different cultural backgrounds.
Training Offered:
· Catholic Charities Maine Volunteer Orientation video series
· Ongoing RIS program/department orientation with various staff
· Weekly supervision with Program Director
· Webinars & courses from Cultural Orientation Resource Exchange, Switchboard.
Time Commitment & Schedule: 5 hours during work hours Fridays, 10am-3:00pm, from Sept 13, 2024 to May 23, 2025.
Benefits:
· An increased appreciation for language access.
· Deepening of your knowledge of languages.
· Exposure to new cultures.
· Learn how to use an interpreter effectively and practice language skills.
· Learn about resiliency and the resettlement process for refugees and asylees.
Program Contact: Eliana Trenam, ILS Manager: 207 560-7689
© 2024 Catholic Charities Maine
