Volunteer

Nearly 85% of people in the U.S. find their jobs through networking, but many immigrants and refugees arrive in this country with limited professional relationships to lean on for support in their job search.

That’s why our volunteers are so important to what we do. Volunteers help transform the lives of immigrant job seekers by sharing their knowledge of U.S. workplace culture and expectations, providing industry-specific insights, and acting as a sounding board. When you help a job seeker succeed, your efforts will trickle down through workplaces, communities and generations.

“I’m privileged and lucky that my career hasn’t been interrupted by conflict and war or the need to leave my home. I’m excited to help others who aren’t as fortunate in that regard.”

Aaron Brottman

Sr. Software Engineer and UpGlo Volunteer

Volunteer Opportunities

Mentor

Mentors will support jobseekers in understanding the components of a successful job search and work with them to apply this knowledge. A mentorship guidebook and trainings are provided. The Mentorship Program is a 12-week commitment, meeting virtually weekly or biweekly.

Language Coach

Work with job seekers (in person or virtually) to help boost their English language skills and confidence. Coaches and job seekers are expected to meet once a week over a 10-week period.

Interview Coach

Help job seekers prepare by conducting mock interviews (virtually or in person). Coaches can also conduct informational interviews to help job seekers understand the intricacies of pursuing a career in the U.S.

Networking Coach

Give job seekers the networking skills to help them grow their professional relationships and position them for success in the U.S. job market.

Industry Expert

Share insights in your field of expertise and help connect job seekers to opportunities in your industry by sharing resources, pathways, and necessary skills.

Portfolio Reviewer

Review job seeker portfolios for industries that often require samples of professional work. Volunteers can also work with job seekers to develop strong, compelling LinkedIn profiles optimized for their goals.

Volunteer Now

Volunteer requirements

We need volunteers from all professional fields to serve the diverse backgrounds of our job seekers. You must have

At least 3 years of U.S.-based professional experience or be an Upwardly Global alumni.

A strong track record of helping others succeed.

An interest in other cultures and respect for the immigrant experience.

Excellent English communication and writing skills.

“Being a volunteer isn’t just about helping others. It’s about self-discovery. I think Upwardly Global has helped me even more than the many job seekers that it helps every day — learning my strengths, finding my own voice, and knowing that I can really help people who are struggling. That’s something no paycheck can give.”

Joanna Zhou

Founder, Bold Bridge Careers

“I chose to volunteer with Upwardly Global because I loved its mission and its impact on the lives of so many immigrants and refugees. One of my first mentees was Kahlil, an immigrant from the Philippines, who was in the midst of redefining his career path. We clarified his dream job, one that met his ikigai (sense of purpose), and then developed a strategy for an efficient job search. We reviewed his resume and LinkedIn profile, and with lots of luck and good fortune, he found a job in a short time. Kahlil’s positive attitude and willingness to pivot were remarkable. I felt energized by his success and excited to keep helping other mentees.”

Marc Henrich

“Upwardly Global’s volunteer-run Leadership Councils are key support networks for newcomers entering the U.S. labor market, and it was my pleasure to work with this community of volunteers and newcomers last spring. One volunteer called alumni and newcomers the ‘heart and soul of the Upwardly Global community,’ but it struck me that it is both the volunteers and the newcomers that form the lifeblood of this organization.”

Chiedza Pasipanodya

Volunteer With Upwardly Global