For many refugee youth, resettling in the U.S. can feel isolating. Their journey, from experiencing war and violence to losing loved ones, leaves lasting emotional scars. The Refugee Youth Mentorship Program (RYMP) helps these young people find connection and belonging in the Tucson community through one-on-one mentorship.

By pairing refugee youth with mentors, RYMP fosters self-discovery, builds community, and empowers participants to navigate new systems while honoring their cultural backgrounds. Our goal is to help these youth become self-advocates, creating a lasting, positive impact on the community.

Our Mission

RYMP matches skilled mentors with refugee-status youth to:

• Foster self-discovery

• Create a strong sense of community

• Equip them to successfully navigate new systems while honoring their cultural contributions to society.

Our Core Beliefs

• Reciprocity: We believe in the power of collaboration, where both mentors and youth exchange time, resources, and support.

• Intercultural Exchange: Mentorship enriches both parties, fostering understanding, connection, and a sense of belonging.

• Growth Mindset: We encourage perseverance and effort as tools for personal growth and self-discovery.

• Reinvestment: Participants use their experiences to advocate for their community, ensuring future success and leadership.

• Wellness: Our mentors and staff are trauma-informed, promoting safety, mindfulness, and healing.

Program Goals

The Refugee Youth Mentorship Program focuses on supporting youth in the following areas:

• Educational: Helping mentees succeed in their academics and pursue further educational opportunities.

• Vocational: Assisting mentees in exploring career paths, developing job skills, and achieving vocational goals.

• Social: Encouraging mentees to build meaningful relationships and strengthen their sense of belonging in the community.

What Mentorship Looks Like

The program runs in three seasonal cohorts: fall, spring, and summer, with 15–20 mentees in each. The process includes:

1. Needs Assessment: RYMP staff assess each mentee's needs and goals.

2. Orientation: Both mentors and mentees attend separate Program Orientations.

3. Matching: Mentors and mentees are paired based on factors like gender, interests, proximity, and availability.

4. Kickoff Event: Mentors and mentees meet and discuss goals, scheduling, and expectations.

5. Ongoing Support: Mentors and mentees connect weekly (digitally) and meet twice a month in person.

Mentor Testimonials

To become a mentor, please contact our team:

Refugee Volunteer Liaison

Reilly Phelan

rphelan@lss-sw.org

(480) 586-1055

RYMP in the News

Our program has been spotlighted by KGUN and KJZZ, showcasing the dedication and efforts of both mentors and mentees. Explore the stories below to get a look into their inspiring stories and learn how you can join us in supporting refugee youth in Tucson.