Mentor – The Well of Mercy

Location: West Rogers Park, Chicago, IL (Hybrid – mostly remote with occasional on-site/in-person outings)

Organization: The Well of Mercy

Position Type: Volunteer (Unpaid)

Time Commitment: Approximately 4–6 hours per month

Website: www.thewellofmercy.com

About Us

The Well of Mercy is a nonprofit, transitional housing program providing safe, stable housing and a pathway to independence for women and their children in Chicago. Residents can stay for up to five years while completing education, securing employment, and rebuilding their lives. Our family-centered approach emphasizes dignity, community, and long-term support.

Position Overview

We are seeking warm, reliable, and empathetic Mentors to serve as companions to mothers currently residing at The Well. Mentorship provides consistent emotional support, encouragement, and connection — all of which are vital for women rebuilding their lives after homelessness, trauma, or instability.

This is an unpaid volunteer role with flexible hours.

What You'll Do

• Provide steady communication, checking in with your mentee at least once a week by text
• Engage in one monthly activity with your mentee — something simple, meaningful, and culturally enriching (coffee, a walk, a museum, a community event, etc.)
• Offer encouragement, listening, and companionship as she works toward personal and family goals
• Model healthy boundaries, stability, and consistency
• Collaborate with staff, sharing general updates while honoring confidentiality
• Help create a sense of connection and belonging for women who may be navigating significant transitions

What We're Looking For

• Warm, grounded, dependable individuals
• Good listeners who offer judgment-free support
• People who enjoy fostering connection and community
• Ability to maintain healthy boundaries and consistency
• Reliable monthly availability for in-person connection

A background in social work, mentoring, education, mental health, or community work is a plus, but not required.

Time Commitment

• Weekly check-in by text (approx. 10–15 minutes)
• One in-person or culturally enriching activity per month
• Approx. 4–6 hours per month total

Why Volunteer as a Mentor?

• Build a meaningful, one-on-one connection
• Support a mother making courageous, long-term changes
• Gain experience relational support
• Be part of a community rooted in dignity, stability, and compassion
• See firsthand the meaningful impact of consistent, gentle companionship

How to Apply

Please send the following to: mary.zeien@thewellofmercy.com

• Your resume
• A brief note about why you're interested in this role

We look forward to hearing from you!

The Well of Mercy

6339 N. Fairfield Ave, Chicago, IL 60659

(773) 274-4227

mary.zeien@thewellofmercy.com

www.thewellofmercy.com