Volunteer
Get Involved
Volunteers are vital to the Mehari Centre in achieving its goals. You can join the dedicated team of volunteer board members and make a difference in the lives of Eritreans in Ottawa.
Lead Workshops
The Centre offers a wide range of programs and workshops to support Eritrean newcomers. Volunteers can contribute by:
✔️ Leading workshops on topics like employment, financial literacy, parenting, health, and more
✔️ Assisting with program development to ensure culturally relevant content
✔️ Providing mentorship and guidance to help newcomers navigate life in Canada
✔️ Facilitating group discussions to foster learning and community building
Support Our Programs & Events
The Centre offers bi-weekly drop-in settlement services and workshops to support Eritrean newcomers. Volunteers play a vital role in making these programs successful.
You can help with:
✔️ Welcoming newcomers
✔️ Providing interpretation and translation services
✔️ Assisting with filling out forms and applications (housing, employment, documentation, etc.)
✔️ Offering basic tech support (email setup, job applications, online services)
✔️ Supporting workshops and community events
Join the Board
The Centre is actively recruiting dedicated board members to help guide our mission and support the Eritrean community in Ottawa.
If you are passionate about community service, leadership, and advocacy, we encourage you to apply!
✔️ Shape the Centre’s vision and programs
✔️ Contribute your expertise in governance, finance, fundraising, or community development
✔️ Support initiatives that empower Eritrean newcomers
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mehari Centre?
The Mehari Centre is a non-profit, community-based organization that was founded in 2022 by Eritrean Canadian professionals
What is the mission of the Mehari Centre?
The Mehari Centre’s mission is to promote and improve the well-being of Eritreans living in Ottawa through programs and services that are culturally and linguistically appropriate and based on evidence and community input. The Centre aims to provide Eritreans with a safe and welcoming environment that helps them connect with each other and the greater community.
What are the values of the Mehari Centre?
- Wefera (ወፈራ) – working together toward a common good.
- Justice (ፍትሒ) – ensuring Eritreans in Ottawa have access to culturally appropriate programs, services, and successful integration into Canadian society.
- Gender Equality (ማዕርነት) – acknowledging the unique challenges and power imbalances faced by women and empowering and promoting the leadership of women.
- Healing (ፈውሲ) – using a strength-based approach to create an environment for healing, restoration, and reconciliation.
- Eldership (ሽማግለ / ሸምግልና) – resolving differences and promoting wellness by engaging community elders, who are recognized through their wisdom, harmony, and actions.
- Solidarity (ምትሕብባር) – working collaboratively with partners and stakeholders across sectors and in solidarity with other marginalized communities to achieve a collective impact.
- Harmony (ስኒት) – celebrating the diversity within the Eritrean community and working together for the strength and well-being of Eritreans in Ottawa.
Where is the Mehari Centre located?
The Mehari Centre is located at 1547 Merivale Road, Unit 200, Nepean, Ontario
When are drop-in services available?
The Mehari Centre offers bi-weekly drop-in settlement services and workshops. To find the specific dates and times, you can check the “Bi-Weekly Calendar” section of their website. The times for several events on their calendar are from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm. The Centre also offers bi-weekly drop-in information and referral services
What kinds of programs and services does the Mehari Centre offer?
- Bi-weekly workshops on topics like financial literacy, the Canadian education system, job search strategies, social and health services, laws and customs, employment rights and responsibilities, and tenant rights and responsibilities.
- Drop-in services offering one-on-one assistance in Tigrigna, including documentation support for permanent residency applications.
- Tax clinics to help permanent residents with modest incomes and simple tax situations prepare their income tax and benefit returns.
- Mental health resources and information on topics like crisis counseling and gambling addiction.
- A Women’s Circle (coming soon) to offer a safe space for women to connect and empower each other.
- Wellness resources.
How can I get involved with the Mehari Centre?
- Volunteering: The Centre relies on volunteers to deliver their programs and services.
- Donating: You can make a financial contribution to help the Centre meet its goals and fund its mission.
- Participating in the needs assessment study: The Centre is conducting a study to identify the service needs of Ottawa’s Eritrean community. You can contact them to participate.
- Joining the Board of Directors: The Mehari Centre is actively recruiting new board members