We are looking to expand ESL support for our artisans! Here at RAI, our goal is always to meet the needs of the artisans and help them thrive. One key aspect of job training is ESL (English as a Second Language). English skills are key to accessing local resources and finding additional employment opportunities. For artisan entrepreneurs, English is also key to growing their micro businesses!
Unfortunately, we hear from many artisans that they are not able to enroll in English classes. This is partly because there is a waitlist for local classes. It can also be difficult to schedule classes around family commitments: some of the same barriers to employment that refugee and immigrant women face, including transportation and childcare responsibilities, are also barriers to their education.
Our solution? Bring ESL training and education to RAI! When artisans come to the Maker Space — for sewing training, to drop off finished products, and to pick up new project materials — it is a perfect opportunity to practice English.
RAI is fortunate to have a new volunteer to help with ESL: welcome Sandra! Sandra has a background teaching ESL and speaks many languages, including Dari which is the native language for many of the artisans from Afghanistan. Sitting with Sandra is an opportunity for artisans to practice their vocabulary, conversational skills, reading or writing: whatever is most helpful for them. There are lots of smiles during ESL time!
This is only the beginning. With nearly 40 artisans in the program, the need for ESL training is immense. We aspire to build this aspect of RAI’s workforce development program so that each and every artisan can access the support she needs to gain confidence and independence as she learns English.
Support from the community is what makes RAI’s job training programs possible. If you would like to help expand workforce development for the artisans, you can donate here. You can also sign up to volunteer via RAI’s Volunteer Interest Form! Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to engage as an ESL volunteer.
