Quick answers about TEEI's free education, mentorship, and volunteer programmes for Ukrainian learners worldwide.
501(c)(3) Verified Nonprofit
Questions? We've Got Answers.
Everything you need to know about TEEI's free education programmes for Ukrainian learners, volunteers, donors, and partners.
For Ukrainian Learners
9 questions answered
01 Is it actually free?
Yes. 100% free. No fees, no "premium" upgrades, no catches. Ever.
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02 How long until I get matched with a mentor?
Most learners find and book their first session within a few days. You browse mentors and request sessions directly — no waiting for us to match you.
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03 What if my mentor doesn't show up?
It happens rarely, but if it does — book another mentor. You're not locked to one person, and no-shows affect mentor ratings.
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04 Can I switch mentors?
Yes. Book any mentor, anytime. Try different people until you find the right fit.
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05 What if I need to cancel a session?
Cancel through the platform. We ask for 24 hours notice when possible, but life happens — just don't make it a habit.
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06 Do I need to speak English already?
For Language Connect, no — we have volunteers for all levels, including beginners. For Mentors for Ukraine, basic English helps, but many mentors speak Ukrainian or Russian.
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07 Can I use this from inside Ukraine?
Yes. All programmes work anywhere with internet access.
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08 Is my information safe?
Yes. Your profile is private. Mentors only see what's needed to run your session. We follow GDPR standards.
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09 Чи можу я писати українською?
Так. Пишіть на info@theeducationalequalityinstitute.org — ми відповімо.
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For Volunteers
7 questions answered
01 How much time do I actually need to commit?
As little as one hour per month. You control your calendar completely.
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02 Do I need teaching or mentoring experience?
No. You need professional experience (for mentoring) or language fluency (for Language Connect). We want real practitioners, not trained instructors.
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03 What if I need to cancel a session?
Cancel through the platform with as much notice as possible. Learners understand — just don't ghost them.
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04 What if a learner doesn't show up?
It happens occasionally. Mark the no-show in the system, and the time is yours again.
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05 What if I don't know how to help with something?
Be honest. Say "I don't know, but here's what I'd suggest..." One real conversation is more valuable than pretending to have all the answers.
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06 Is there any support if I have issues?
Yes. Email volunteering@theeducationalequalityinstitute.org — we respond within 1-2 business days.
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07 How do I know this is legitimate?
We're a registered nonprofit in Norway (928 776 719) and the US (501(c)(3), EIN 33-2331817). Our platform partner is Kintell, used by major organisations worldwide.
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For Donors
5 questions answered
01 Where does my money actually go?
100% to programmes. We have no paid staff — our team is entirely volunteer. Every dollar funds education, mentorship, and language programmes directly.
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02 Is my donation tax-deductible?
For US donors, yes — we're a 501(c)(3). EIN: 33-2331817. For other countries, check with your tax advisor.
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03 How do I know you're legitimate?
We're registered in Norway (NGO 928 776 719) and the US (501(c)(3), EIN 33-2331817). We publish verified impact numbers and work with established partners including itslearning, Kintell, and Oxford University Press.
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04 Can I see what my donation accomplished?
Yes. We send impact updates to donors and publish programme statistics publicly. No vague claims — real numbers.
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05 Can I donate to a specific programme?
Yes. Designate your gift for Language Connect, Mentors for Ukraine, upskilling, or girls' education when you donate.
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For Companies & Partners
4 questions answered
01 What's the minimum commitment to partner?
There isn't one. Some companies start with five employees volunteering; others sponsor full programme cohorts. We'll design something that fits.
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02 How fast can we get employees volunteering?
Most corporate volunteer programmes launch within 2-4 weeks. Employees sign up individually; we handle onboarding and matching.
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03 What reporting do we get?
Volunteer hours, sessions completed, learner matches, and engagement metrics. We'll agree on specifics during setup.
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04 Are you on Benevity / YourCause?
Yes. If you don't see us on your platform, contact us and we'll register.
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General
4 questions answered
01 What's the difference between TEEI's programmes?
Language Connect = conversation practice. Mentors for Ukraine = career guidance. Language Courses = structured classes. Upskilling = job skills training. Buddy Program = social integration in Norway.
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02 Is TEEI only for Ukrainians?
Our Ukraine programmes serve Ukrainians specifically. We're also building programmes for girls and women globally through Together for Her Success.
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03 I emailed and haven't heard back. What should I do?
Check spam. If it's been more than 3 business days, email again — sometimes things slip through.
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04 How do I contact you?
General: contact@theeducationalequalityinstitute.org
Volunteering: volunteering@theeducationalequalityinstitute.org
Partnerships: partnership@theeducationalequalityinstitute.org
We respond within 1-2 business days.
Volunteering: volunteering@theeducationalequalityinstitute.org
Partnerships: partnership@theeducationalequalityinstitute.org
We respond within 1-2 business days.
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