ELL (English Language Learner) Mentor

Department: SBU Academy

Supervisor: Program Manager- Middle/High School

Works With: Students ages 11-18 (grades 6-11), Program Associates

Description:

South Bronx United (SBU) is seeking highly motivated and energetic volunteers who are passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of South Bronx youth. As an Academic Mentor, you will be able to work closely with boys and girls in the SBU Academy, providing one-on-one or small group support (3-4 students). Your role will involve assisting with homework, helping students reach their grade levels in math and English language arts, and fostering their academic growth.

ELL Mentors work with small groups (2-4 students) of students in the South Bronx United Academy that are currently designated as English Language Learners (ELL) to provide homework help and weekly English lessons. ELL Mentors meet with the boys and girls, ages 11-18, for 2 hours on a set day every week. Mentors work with the same group week-to-week, having the opportunity to build relationships with the youth and serve as positive adult role models in their lives, promoting the importance of education.

Time Commitment:

Please note- this is an in-person volunteer opportunity.

ELL Mentors are asked to commit at minimum 2 hours, one day a week for one semester. Volunteers are invited to take additional shifts if they are available.

Our program is located Monday-Fridays at Bronx Legacy High School (730 Concourse Village West, Floor 3 Bronx, NY 10451)

Primary Responsibilities:

• Work in small group of students who are English Language Learners
• Assisting students with their homework and helping them reach grade-level proficiency in Math and English Language Arts
• Fostering academic growth by providing guidance, resources, and support tailored to each student's needs.
• Serving as a positive adult role model and mentor in the lives of the youth you work with.

Desired qualifications:

• Passion for our mission and making a positive impact in the South Bronx community
• Passion for education: Demonstrated interest in supporting students' academic growth and success.
• Communication skills: Excellent verbal communication skills are required, along with strong, active listening abilities in English. Bilingual volunteers are also welcome as many of our students also speak a language other than English.
• Patience & Empathy: Ability to empathize with students and create a safe and supportive environment for them to express their concerns.
• Reliable & Responsibility: Commitment to attending mentoring sessions consistently and being punctual.

Please note that this is a volunteer position. Your dedication and commitment will make a significant impact on the academic success of high school student-athletes in the SBU Academy.

Training:

To ensure that mentors are well-prepared and equipped to support the student-athletes effectively, an orientation and training session will be provided at the beginning of the semester. This session will cover general guidelines, mentoring tips, and an overview of the specific needs of the students in the SBU Academy. The training will also be available to volunteers when they join.

In addition to the initial training, intermittent check-ins and additional training sessions will be conducted throughout the semester. These opportunities allow mentors to develop their skills further, stay updated on best practices in mentoring, and address any questions or concerns that may arise during their service.

Benefits:

Volunteering as a mentor in the SBU Academy offers numerous benefits, including personal fulfillment, opportunities for personal and professional growth, networking with like-minded individuals, and the possibility of counting volunteer hours towards school service or academic requirements. By supporting under-served students in their educational journey, mentors make a positive impact while also gaining valuable skills and experiences.

Beyond:

Beyond mentoring, mentors in the SBU Academy are encouraged to engage with the program participants who are also members of the South Bronx United Travel Soccer Teams. Mentors are welcome to attend games or get involved in practices, as these youth have a strong passion for the sport. Connecting with them through soccer provides an additional avenue to build relationships and further support their development.