Level 2 Sponsorship

Level 2 Sponsorship

Time Commitment: three months  Financial Commitment: $1,000 – 2,500

Inclusive of Level 1 as well as the following services:

• Weekly check-in with refugees and updates to the case manager

• A representative from the core team is required to participate in monthly leadership calls.

• Provide three additional core areas of support based on the individual’s goals. The additional ares of support must be discussed with the case manager and should be provided in tandem with CCC services.

Transportation

Transportation is a doorway to the community, giving individuals a way of exploring their surroundings. Coordinate transportation to/from appointments for the first 90 days. Transportation includes navigating public transportation, driver’s education lessons, and utilizing bicycles or Uber and Lyft while also teaching safety and etiquette. Learning to get around independently is essential Without these skills, access to employment, school, and basic needs and services is limited.

Pre-Arrival

Recruit volunteers to provide transportation to initial necessary appointments. Volunteers should become familiar with the area and public transportation.

Post-Arrival

Introduce refugees to available transportation options such as:

• Ride services like Uber or Lyft and explain how to call or schedule a ride

• Introduce bicycle safety, including traffic laws and guidelines for bicyclists

• Explain public transportation and provide financial support if initially needed

• Walk with them to places that are accessible on foot

• Discuss street safety like traffic lights, crosswalks, and street signs

• Review child passenger safety requirements and guidelines Coordinate volunteers through an online site like SignUpGenius.

Driver’s Licenses and Permits For those interested in obtaining a driver’s license or permit, discuss how to learn to drive and become licensed at the DMV. You should also discuss car ownership and what it entails such as where to buy a car, how much money is needed, and the costs involved (gas, insurance, and maintenance). Contact CCC for driving resources in various languages.

Public Transportation Public transportation may be a refugee’s main transportation for the first few weeks or months. Knowing how to navigate transit schedules, pay fares, reload bus cards, and ask for assistance are crucial skills. A sponsor should explain public transportation options and allow individuals to practice on their own and become self-sufficient.

Public Transportation Etiquette

Boarding and exiting - When boarding, allow passengers inside to exit first. Stand to the right or left of the doors to make room for people exiting. seniors and parents with strollers to exit first.

Escalators - When using escalators, stand to the right on the left.

One seat per person - Hold bags or personal items under your seat without blocking the aisle. Do not place them in an empty seat because this takes a seat away from someone else.

Share the pole - If standing on a bus or train, do no lean on the pole, so others can use it too.

Priority seating - Priority seating is located near bus and metro doors and is indicated by a sign. Anyone can sit there if unoccupied but be prepared to give up your seat to passengers who are elderly, disabled, or pregnant. The Four No’s of Public Transportation

When exiting, allow No Food or Drinks Do not eat or drink while on to allow people to walk public transportation.

No Pushing your lap or place them Form an orderly line when boarding public transportation and do not push to board first. No Blocking Blocking doors inside a bus or train can cause delays and safety concerns. No Loud Music Keep your music at a low volume and always wear headphones.

Keep personal business personal - Avoid loud phone or personal conversations on the bus or train.

Adapted from arlingtontransportationpartners.com

Germ prevention. Always follow CDC guildelines regarding wearing a face mask in public places. Do not cough or sneeze in your hand as germs can be transferred to poles, door handles or seats; instead, cough or sneeze into a tissue or your arm.