The Collectif Bienvenue is launching an innovative project to address a critical need among people seeking refuge: many of them in Montreal face significant challenges in finding legal support for their asylum or PRRA applications. We are setting up a support clinic to assist with the preparation of protection applications, and we need volunteers who are available on Fridays starting in May 2026.
HOW DOES IT WORKS
Describing one’s background to apply for asylum is a crucial step, but it is often intimidating and complex to navigate alone. Filling out the “Basis of the Asylum Claim” form and writing a narrative of the events experienced in the country of origin is a crucial step that asylum seekers must complete very quickly upon their arrival in Canada. Similarly, individuals in the PRRA process must act very quickly to submit these documents. It is difficult for many people to find affordable, quality legal representation for this essential step.
On Fridays from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, volunteers will be paired with individuals wishing to file an asylum claim or a PRRA application. Throughout the day, a draft will be prepared, and we will then assist participants in finding a representative or arranging a quick consultation with an immigration lawyer for urgent situations. The structure of these sessions is designed to foster a collective support dynamic for all participants and volunteers
TRAINING & ENGAGEMENT
Volunteering begins with a mandatory four-day interactive training session on Fridays, May 22, May 29, June 5, and June 12, 2026 (9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.). Topics covered: The asylum application process and its stages, intercultural, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressive intervention, best practices, and legal concepts for assisting with the drafting of protection applications.
Following this, a commitment is required from June 19 through the end of October 2026, for at least two Fridays per month, with some flexibility possible (e.g., travel during the summer).
ABOUT THE VOLUNTEERS
We are looking for individuals who can combine active listening, attention to detail, and empathy to assist in the writing of sensitive life stories. Volunteers must demonstrate a knack for narrative synthesis and be prepared to apply the intercultural and anti-oppressive approaches learned during training.
HOW TO BECOME A VOLUNTEER
March 27, 5:00 p.m. – Online information session and Q&A: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83068562590
April 17 - deadline to complete this form: (form coming soon) - *You must attach your resume
April 28 at 12:00 PM and April 29 at 5:00 PM - Group interviews
Week of May 4 - Individual interviews and volunteer confirmation
May 22, May 29, June 5, and June 12, 9:30 AM–3:30 PM - Training days
June 19 - Start of your volunteer work (2 Fridays per month)
If you have any questions, please contact Maryse Poisson: maryse@welcomecollective.org.
“When I was referred to your organization, I had a lot of needs, I was very stressed, and I didn’t want to leave the house. I was paired with a volunteer who was very open and immediately put me at ease. I felt comfortable asking her all my questions: she helped me find a lawyer and make a doctor’s appointment. She was truly a great help.”
