Join Bike Host!

Looking for neighbourhood to go on bike rides with newcomers to Canada!

Bike Host is a free cycling mentorship program for landed immigrants and convention refugees, created by CultureLink Settlement and Community Services (CultureLink). Bike Host volunteer mentors are matched with newcomers to Canada who are open to cycling. Together, mentors and newcomer participants explore Toronto by bike and organize and participate in group activities. Through this program, volunteer mentors support newcomer participants to improve their communication skills, bike riding skills, knowledge of bike routes (recreational and other), general bike maintenance, free events and activities as well as providing networking and socializing opportunities all while exploring Toronto by bike.

BECOME A MENTOR
Mentors are interesting and outgoing Toronto residents from all walks of life. They have strong communication skills and a genuine desire to create a more welcoming community. They must ride regularly and be reasonably confident on city streets. Mentors are required to be at least 19 years of age. Expected volunteer commitment is approximately 35 hours between June and October. Responsibilities include regular communication with newcomer participants and CultureLink staff, planning activities with 2-4 newcomer participants at mutually agreeable times, participating in monthly large group activities, and supporting development of cycling skills and confidence.
Additional criteria, skills and requirements for being a successful Bike Host mentor:
• Must attend mentors’ orientation, training and matching session
• Must provide two references (non-family)
• Must provide a police clearance letter (reimbursement available once accepted into the program; a valid police clearance letter acquired for other jobs/volunteer positions is acceptable)
• Should have knowledge of Toronto’s local culture/neighborhoods – in areas where Bike Host is being offered – and free events and activities
• Capability to help newcomers practice English and learn new skills in project management/event planning will be an asset
• Small-group facilitation experience and ability to engage participants of varying skills and language levels will be an asset
• Experience working with newcomers or diverse clients will be an asset

Check out our website for more information, including a map of the 2017 program locations: www.culturelink.ca/bike-host.

For mentors, pre-registration and interview is required. If you are interested, please sign up at:

https://app.betterimpact.com/Application/?OrganizationGuid=31ecb181-3aee...

Contact Rubeen Chauhan, Program Worker, rchauhan@culturelink.ca or 416-588-6288 x 231