Become a Mentor. Help a Woman Move from Crisis to Stability.
Could You Walk Beside Her?
Leaving an abusive relationship is only the beginning.
For a woman rebuilding her life after intimate partner violence, everyday tasks can feel overwhelming.
Why Mentorship Matters
From finding work, securing housing, naviga ng schools and community services, caring for children, building a support network, and simply finding confidence in herself again, the list is daunting.
A mentor can make a woman feel less alone and scared, and that journey feel a little less overwhelming.
As part of our Program, which provides safe housing, counselling and mentoring, volunteer mentors walk alongside women as they rebuild their lives and work toward greater stability and independence.
Mentors receive orientation, training, support and guidance from the program. Mentoring is provided within program guidelines and is not a substitute for professional counselling, legal advice or other specialized services.
What Does a Mentor Do?
A mentor provides practical guidance, encouragement and a listening ear. Together, you may:
Set Goals
Support women in identifying meaningful, realistic goals for themselves and their children, based on their circumstances, priorities and hopes for the future. Help break larger goals into manageable steps using the SMART approach - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. Celebrate progress and encourage confidence along the way.
Support The Journey to Employment
Help with resume writing, registering with WorkBC and other employment agencies, identifying skills-building opportunities, applying for jobs and developing and practising interview skills. When English is a challenge, encourage and support language practice.
Help Find Housing
Assist with a housing search, accompany women to view properties when appropriate, and offer practical guidance about tenancy and establishing a home.
Build Skills & Confidence
Explore interests, strengths, personality and attitudes. Research and register for appropriate training programs.
Help women learn to navigate and successfully engage with the school system, prepare healthy meals, cook on a budget, and develop practical life skills.
Bridge Language Barriers
When English is limited, provide support with communication and help identify effective translation apps and other tools that can make everyday tasks easier.
Build A Social Network
Encourage connections with moms' groups, support groups, faith communities and other positive community networks. Help women practise and develop social skills and rebuild a sense of belonging.
Create A Comfortable Home
Support women in developing healthy household routines, organization skills and habits that help create a stable and welcoming home.
Support Moms & Children
Offer encouragement to mothers caring for infants and toddlers. When appropriate and in accordance with program guidelines, mentors may provide practical support such as babysitting.
Be A Listening Ear
Sometimes what a woman needs most is someone who will listen without judgment. Be a trusted sounding board when life feels difficult, offer encouragement, and remind her of the progress she has already made.
What Makes a Great Mentor?
You don't need to have all the answers. You are not perfect, because frankly, none of us are. We are looking for women who are:
- Compassionate, empathetic, patient and non-judgmental
- Respectful of each woman's choices, culture, circumstances and pace
- Good listeners who communicate with warmth and respect
- Reliable, trustworthy and must be able to maintain confidentiality
- Practical and resourceful
- Encouraging and supportive
- Comfortable helping with everyday life skills
- Willing to learn and grow alongside the women we serve
Most importantly, you believe that every woman has strengths, potential and the ability to build a new future.
You can't walk the whole journey for her.
But you can walk beside her.
Join us in helping women move from crisis to stability, at their own pace.
Your time, encouragement and practical support can help a woman take the next step. And then the next.
Become A Volunteer Mentor
Could you walk beside her?
Complete the Mentor Expression of Interest form, and we will be in touch shortly!
Download Mentor Expression of Interest Form
We thank you on behalf of the women that we serve.