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

Our Mentorship Program is centered on authentic female relationships. Mentors are adult women who commit to building a genuine, supportive relationship with a single mother for at least one year.

This program is not about “fixing,” directing, or advising. It is about companionship, mutual respect, and shared life experiences— all of which are vital for women rebuilding their lives after homelessness, trauma, or instability. Mentors and mentees meet as equals, learning from one another while building trust, confidence, and friendship. Through consistent connection, both women are supported in expanding their world, finding joy in everyday life and motherhood, and developing lasting, healthy relationships.

This is an unpaid volunteer role with flexible hours.

What You'll Do

• Provide steady communication (texting, phone call, coffee, or check-in — not always in person)
• Participate in one monthly shared activity, such as:
  • Museums, aquariums, or cultural events
  • Sightseeing, nature walks, or exercise classes
  • Many activities are free (mentors are not expected to spend money)
• Offer encouragement, listening, and companionship as she works toward personal and family goals
• Model healthy boundaries, stability, and consistency
• Help create a sense of connection and belonging for women who may be navigating significant transitions
• Join monthly check-ins with Well of Mercy staff for support
• Attend mentor training sessions
• Participate in a quarterly group celebration with mentors, mentees, and staff

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: kirasteph.twom@gmail.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

kirasteph.twom@gmail.com

www.thewellofmercy.com