OPENING WORD PROGRAM INC

I love The Opening Word Program Inc. It’s great for learnings. We’ve amazing teachers. I am very happy to participate in this program. I am grateful to the founders and staff of this program, I am glad to have you.
Yildiz Kozan

I had a great time in the Opening Word Program. I love my school. I learned o lot of good information here. Many different types of presentations were made. I love the Opening Word Program, because it has changed my life. They are very helpful and friendly in here. The Sisters, teachers and volunteers at the Opening Word Program are very nice people and they help with everything. I love them. I had an unforgettable memory here. I love my school. As I who have tried other schools to learn English, I’m glad I’m here. Thank you all sisters, teachers, volunteers and Gillian. Thank you the Opening Word Program.

Opening Word Program is a wonderful organization that helps women who have arrived from other countries and supports them through education and other access to resources. Women who strive to succeed are being taught in programs such as literacy and finance. The organization is also a resource for mental health education as well as immigration advocacy. Opening Word provides the tools for women to feel confident while improving their skills to make them job-ready. Being out in the workforce and being able to communicate is a wish of many who come to this country, but it often becomes a struggle for those who don't have adequate support to guide them through the tedious transition. The organization is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Dominic of Amityville, and I admire that this is a program for women supported by women. What a better way to provide inspiration to others than through women who give of themselves to others!

The Opening Word program is an exceptional platform that offers individuals a unique opportunity to acquire valuable skills and further their education. Opening Word not only focuses on core academic subjects but also offers specialized skills training. The program's personalized learning approach caters to individual needs, ensuring that learners can grow at their own pace and in their own style. Opening Word serves as a fantastic resource that promotes continuous learning and personal growth.

Opening Word is a great non-profit that helps the community. We are lucky to have them. Lots of women are being helped and they can better job since they can speak English.

I have been working as the Program Assistant for The OPening Word program for less than a year but i wouldn’t wish for a better work environment and community. They welcomed me so warmly as they welcome all the immigrant women who needs this organization. I was very impressed with their mission and the effort and time they spent to help these women to get better lives. I am truly proud of being part of OPening Word and want to thank everyone who makes this possible. All our donors, supporters and volunteers… we appriciate your help!

They are a great team works from their heart meryem as i know personally joined team and makes a big impact

What a great non profit that gives so much to the community.

I llove my school and the teachers. The Opening Word staff are very helpful and they go above and beyond to teach us. They offer different programs to students. I am very grateful and I can”t thank enough for everything.

My name is Lily. I am from China. I came to the United States in 1999. In 2014 I came to opening word in Huntington Station to learn English. I met sweet volunteer teachers and sweet students. I learned a lot from them.
After two years I left because I found a job. In 2022 I came back with my friend Suani. Now I can speak a lot of English and it helps me in life. But I still have trouble with writing and reading.I need to continue my studies in English. Thanks teachers! Thanks opening word!
Lily 10/29/2022

My name is Ana Alvarez. I am from El Salvador. I came to the United States in 2008. In 2013, I started English classes but I was only there for two or three weeks, I don't remember very well why I didn't have anyone to take care of my baby who was 9 months old at that time. In 2016, I returned to classes again when my child started prekindergarten. My teacher was Sister Anne, with her and volunteer teachers I learned my first words in English. In the following year my teacher was Jean-Marie, I was confused because in that classroom it was more advanced and I thought it was too hard because I didn't understand much. It was a challenge for me because there were classmates who knew a lot. In 2018 my teacher was JoAnn. With her I learned to speak English a little. I remember that for the ceremony at the end of classes she asked me if I wanted to say a few words, I told her that I felt nervous because I had never spoken in public. In the end , I spoke at the Ceremony and I did well. It built my confidence. From 2019 to 2022 my teacher has been Jean-Marie. She is an excellent teacher in The Opening Word in Huntington Station with a lot of patience and dedication to teach. Thank you to The Opening Word program, teachers and volunteers for teaching me the English language. God bless you.

My name is Maria Jesus Pinedo Aguilar .
I am from Peru.
I came to the United States six years ago, in 2016.
In 2016 I started attending English classes in the Opening Word Program in Huntington Station, New York.
I remember the first day of classes there were almost one hundred students present.
I have had interesting and wonderful experiences here.
My first teacher was sister Catherine Pelusso. Her enthusiasm, joy, and faith in God touched my heart. Every week our teacher Virginia offered tangerines for all 32 students. Everyone enjoyed them.
It is important to learn English because it provides new opportunities in jobs and better communication in families.
Children often speak English at home and parents struggle to understand and communicate with them. That is why English is important in family life.
God Bless America and especially Opening Word Program Teachers and volunteers.

My name is Neimy Amaya. Iam From El Salvador.l came to the United States in 2007. Many years ago I started attending English classes at the Opening Word in Huntington.I’ve been here for a long time. I started with Sister Ann. I didn’t know any English before I started with her, I learned a lot I feel happy here. It’s a good school.Now I’m improving my English.I can explain myself better than before.I recommend this program for other people because it’s a good opportunity.They give you the best that the teacher can give.My best decision was to learn English. It gives me better job opportunities and a better life , I write these words because of my experiences

My name is Lucia. I'm from El Salvador I stared attending English class in 2019.
The classes at Opening Word are a good oportunity for many people. The program offers a chance for all people , no matter their nationality, to learn English . The teachers are very professional and friendly .
I've attended classes at The Opening Word in Huntington station for 3 years . This place makes the difference to bring an apportonity to learn how to speak, write and understand English. And now everyting I know is thanks to this good program and all the teachers .

My name is Brenda Campos, I am from El Salvador, I came to the U.S.A. in 2005.
I have a beautiful family, I have 2 boys, when I started coming to the Opening Word in Huntington Station my younger son was in pre-k, it was difficult for me because while my son was in school I was learning English in this program so I just had 3 hours to learn. That year was my first and I fell in love with this program, Sister Anne was my teacher, She was really adorable and patient with me and my classmates.
When I started, I spoke no English. The next year my teacher was Mrs. Jean Marie, an adorable and beautiful teacher, that year I learned a lot because I had more time to come, the volunteers were wonderful, and I can say my teacher is the best, She teaches with love.
The next year was my 3 year and my teacher was Mrs Melissa. Unfortunately that year I didn't feel well and skipped a lot of classes, because my husband and I were working in our company. Then the Pandemic started and I was sad, but thank God all of my classmates and teachers were ok.
When the zoom classes started, i thought was a great idea because a lot of students were worried and it was stressful. I think a lot of students enjoyed those classes. Unfortunately I couldn't take them, I skipped a lot because my husband got the COVID and he was working on his health.
Now everything is fantastic. I am learning a lot with my favorite teacher Jean Marie and the sister Leonor.We don't have the volunteers yet but they will come soon.
I feel really good and thankful, This program changed my life completely, I speak better and understand better too. I can say this program is wonderful.

My name is Mercedes Lopez. I am 28 years old. I came to USA in July 2019. It was very difficult at first because everything was new for me, and in the beginning I felt lonely. I missed my family a lot. But I decided to be strong and take advantage of new world. I started to work. I have always wanted to learn English in my country but it was too expensive and I did not have enough money. That was a luxury that I could not afford so I had to put a STOP to one of my dreams. But now I am in this amazing country and it has many opportunities, one of them is a program to learn English and the most important thing it is FREE. Its name is OPENING WORD PROGRAM in Huntington Station.. I started this program in 2021 and I can see how I have improved my English every day. This is a great experience where I also have a very nice team to support me. The teachers are very nice, patient and sweet.
I AM THANKFULL FOR THIS PROGRAM..

I became connected with the Opening Word program several years ago and I am thrilled to be part of this organization. The program serves immigrant women in three communities on Long Island. I work in the Mental Health and Wellness Center at Molloy University and we have formed a partnership with the Opening Word to bring Mental Health and Wellness Services to the women and their families. Teaching English as a second language is one component of this organization however, the women are supported with (and educated about) housing, nutrition, healthcare, and mental wellness issues. Further, the women create community and support each other to navigate the challenges they face as immigrants. The Opening Word offers support in becoming citizens of the US. I am proud to serve this non-profit through my work with Molloy and as a recently appointed member of the Board of Trustees. - Lori McAndrew, MS, LMHC

Opening Word Program has helped hundreds of women to become proficient in speaking and understanding English. Beyond learning a language, they grow in their self-esteem and develop wonderful leadership skills. When I attend their graduation ceremony at the end of each year, I am filled with great happiness. Their smiling faces tell the story of their great accomplishments. Congratulations to all the teachers for their dedication to such a wonderful program.

I have been connected with the Opening Word program since its beginning 30 years ago. With a few women in a trailer/classroom to a program having served thousands of students, the Opening Word has helped to transform lives. The Sisters of St. Dominic of Amityville are proud to recognize the Opening Word as one of our sponsored ministries.
Over the years the Directors, teachers and volunteers have worked diligently with the women to help them achieve literacy skills, thus enabling them to better serve their families and community. Assisting the women as they prepare for and apply for citizenship and providing life skills training, are just some aspects of the Opening Word program. All involved come to a deeper appreciation of various cultures and celebrate those cultures.
During Covid the program received donations and was able to offer assistance in the form of food and other necessities for the women and their families.
I am proud to recommend the Opening Word as a great nonprofit!

I have been involved with the Opening Word Program for 16 years, as both a volunteer and board member. I am continually amazed at the contribution this program makes in the lives of the immigrant women it serves. As in past yeArs, the program has continued to provide language instruction, citizenship preparation and job readiness skills, but during Covid, the program has expanded to include food distribution, health care information and helping the women face the challenges brought about by Covid. I am so proud to be a part of this organization which is helping so many.

Hello, I am a student in Wyandanch. I'm 38 years old and have 2 kids. I heard about this program from a friend. I want go to school, get a better job, learn how to have a conversation in English and write it. I'm in the lowest level and my teacher is very good at explaining the subject and makes sure we all understand it before moving on.
Thanks to this program, I have created new bonds, I have new friends and I feel, I'm in the right path to achieving my goals.

I am a Wyandanch student. I am 59 years old and need to learning English because I live in the Unites States and want a better job. I am in the lowest level and I love my class, my teacher is very good, she has a lot of patience. Most of us are older people and she is constantly pushes us to learn. My classmates are all good people and we help each other. We have become a family.

The Opening Word is a Sponsored Ministry of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Amityville, and is a very close reprise of the founding mission of our congregation. The original sisters came to the US in the 1850's to teach German immigrant children, understanding that education is the pathway for building a future. The same spirit animates The Opening Word today. I serve as a member of the Board of Directors and have seen over the years a deep commitment to the care of our women, not simply the focused purpose of literacy education but attentiveness to the whole person. For women who are generally an underserved population, our students are treated with dignity and respect. They come to a place where they are safe, where their individual needs are recognized and served. This was especially true during the time of the pandemic. As the world around them "shut down" the Opening Word went into high gear to reach out to them in the stresses that were part of their lives. The outreach from the Opening Word supporters was extraordinary.

I love the Opening Word. The teachers are very good and helpful. They are friendly and their smiling faces make us feel happy.
I now can help my children with their homework and learning English helps me when I go to the doctor. I feel successful and I'm moving forward in
my life. I have made new friends.

I was recently hired by The Opening Word Program as the Administrative Coordinator for the Amityville site, and I could not have asked for a more rewarding position. All of the sisters with whom I work are lovely and caring individuals, and the Executive Director is wonderful. Everyone is very patient with me and willing to help me to understand my role. I hope that within the next few months I will become more skilled in my position and will be able to assist everyone efficiently and effectively. In addition, the students are lovely and appear eager to learn. The sisters who teach here are so dedicated and really enjoy what they do. That truly translates into students wanting to learn and enjoying themselves while learning.

When I interviewed for the position, one of the teachers said that some of the students told her that they felt that The Opening Word Program experience was like being with family. I could not agree more! Lynne B.

Before I came to The Opening Word Program, I felt very nervous because it was my first time here and I didn't know anyone, but I was excited, too because I didn't want to stop learning English. Now I feel comfortable because I meet new women. Sister Kathy is a good teacher, she teaches English very well. This week I'm learning English a lot because we practice reading with the book True Stories 3, and newspapers. Writing with the book SIDE BY SIDE 2, and we make paragraphs or sentences. I'm fascinated with the book Language Art because it contains grammar. In conclusion, I'm happy because I'm here. I hope to reach my goals! My goal is to learn English very well.

Yenis M.

This program teaches English to immigrant women. I am so impressed by their desire to learn the language and their commitment to the program. Many women are raising families and working night hours which gets them home sometimes as late as two am. Yet, they enthusiastically attend and participate in class. As a teacher, I have learned much from these students and grateful for this teaching opportunity.

Before I came to The Opening Word Program, I felt nervous because I have 3 kids and I do a lot of things. I thought I couldn't handle everything, but I can! I felt excited because I met new persons. Always, when something is new I (felt) feel scared and nervous, but the new women are good persons. Now I feel comfortable. I'm meeting new women. I like to stay here with them. They are good with me and I try doing the same. I'm learning something new every day. The Opening Word helps me to stay comfortable because I learn the verbs and grammar. I don't know what I would do without the program. In conclusion, this program is the best! Kely P.

For the past few years, I have had the honor of teaching in The Opening Word Program, sponsored by the Dominican Sisters of Amityville. a non-profit program that provides adult literacy instruction (ESL) to women immigrants. This experience has been much more than ever anticipated. I have come to love the students and the mission of the program. Each day we strive to instruct basic English to a willing group of recipients who want nothing more than to speak English so that they can better their everyday living. The program provides support in all areas including language development, social opportunities, and much needed emotional support. In the pictures provided, you will see students working within their own classrooms and events happening outside the perimeters of the classroom. Celebrations are common and our students have received notable awards from various educational institutions for their advancement in literacy and for other outstanding characteristics demonstrated during their time with us. It is a commonplace experience to meet former students who love to retell their success stories and credit of course The Opening Word Program. In its 30 years of existence, the program has changed the lives of many women for the better and left a lasting mark in their hearts, mind and souls. Students never leave the classroom without saying, "Thank You, Teacher." The mission to unlock the language ability of adult participants, and provide them with a key to future personal empowerment, increased civic and social responsibility and enhanced skills for membership in the workforce, is lived out each day by administration, staff, teachers and volunteers. Thank you to The Opening Word Program for what you are and what you continue to be.

The Opening Word Program truly respects the dignity of all who attend the program. The administration, staff and teachers help the women to grow in all aspects of their lives. Besides teaching English, Opening Word provides food and other items for the families. Their kindness, love and compassion extends beyond the classroom. It is such an uplifting program to visit. There is such a sense of joy and peace on the classrooms and throughout the buildings. I am honored to be on the board of this wonderful organization.

The Opening Word Program is a great place for students, staff and volunteers. The program goes beyond teaching students a second language it prepares students for a world outside the classroom such as health awareness, job placement, family assistance and more. Volunteers and staff all feel a sense of accomplishment being there to help and assist with day to day actives. The program is rewarding to all involved.

The OPening Word is a great ESL program for women who want to learn English. We encourage the women to do their best to succeed and they do !

The Opening Word Program has been in operation and accepting students for about thirty years. The students are immigrant women from various countries.
They want to learn to read, write and improve their English speaking skills.
They strive to advance their life in America. However, in this program they gain
so much more! They gain an appreciation of their new language through enrichment in reading, poetry, writing and the telling of their personal stories.
They get practice and hone in on computer technology, math and practical skills.
This Includes resume preparation as well as study to obtain citizenship status.
I have been a volunteer in this program for nine years. It has been a joy to watch the women grow in self confidence and accomplishment. It is a gratifying and rewarding experience observing their progress and their leaps to the next level.
The women are excited and appreciate this opportunity. They are determined to do their best because they see a future for themselves and their families.
They inspire their teachers with their perseverance and resilience.
Their participation in this program helps them form a new community of friendships that support one another.
I couldn’t imagine a more distinguished, successful program than the
“Opening Word.” It offers Hope and Promise to tomorrow’s future generation
of women; investing their new knowledge and skills in themselves and ultimately in America!

I have been volunteering at Opening Word for a couple of years now. I am in awe of the teachers and the students in the program. Through the pandemic, the teachers continued to teach on a remote basis and were able to master the ins and outs of ZOOM. The students hung in there and worked very hard. Opening Word was also able to assist the families of the students with food and other services as well to meet the increased needs due to the pandemic. Since I volunteer in the office I am able to see this exceptional program up close. I am SO impressed with the teachers, students and everyone connected with Opening Word.

Even Covid could not keep the incredible staff of The Opening Word from serving the women who come for English language instruction. The staff needed to learn how to teach remotely (even using cell phones!) and how to answer the needs of the women beyond language. Food was delivered to homes throughout the year and funds were provided to some families who had lost a loved one and/or a job. The Opening Word always goes above and beyond!

Hi My name is Dilis Alvarez . I have been student in Opening Word program for 5 years . I'm very happy. The teacher and sister good people.

The Opening Word Program is an important education center for people who are coming from other countries. in this place there are women from nationalities different, and they are studying to learn English. I have a beautiful experience, when I come here ,I didn't speak English, but now for me all is better, because I speak, write, read, and understand English.Thanks The Opening Word Program.

I,m happy in Opening Word this year. Is my 3rd. year in the school and I learned so much. My teachers are good and they have experience as teachers. They are nice persons, with big heart. Always pray for all. God blessing for yours patient .
Today not are many students in class, but the wish of learn is big and I think that all have the same wish.

I am a board member so I may show some bias here BUT... I am very proud to be a part of the Opening Word Program. The Help, Effort and Love shown to Women from all backgrounds is Beautiful. Education in all manners is always the answer and we offer it right up to Full Citizenship. Please consider helping us in any way you can. Tom Rolston Sr.

The Opening Word Program is a sponsored ministry of the Dominican Sisters of Amityville. I am a Dominican Sister and I am on the leadership team for our congregation. Our congregation is so proud of this program. Led by an outstanding Executive Director, the staff of teachers, volunteers and administrators work tirelessly day in and day out to give the women the best education which extends beyond the classroom. Their care and compassion especially during this time of pandemic has been and continues to be an inspiration to all! Besides teaching, they have made sure the women and their families received food and other services to help and support them during this most difficult time. Opening Word takes education to another level, a level of deep love and compassion.

My friend recommended this school to me over a year ago. Since that time I'm a full-time student.I started at level 1 and all teachers are very nice, very friendly and they teaching are very well. After the pandemic we can't go to school, so they came up with the idea zoom meeting. This was very good for we can continue to take a class at home and not miss anything. I'm very happy to be student of Opening Word Program. I recommended everyone who needs ENL.

Opening word


The opening word is a program funded in 1991 by S . Mary Ryan, the opening word is provide a key to personal with retired teacher as volunteers , opening word’s is a program for women immigrants seeking to learn English for a better future in this country .

I like opening word because I’m learning English , better social behavior, a have better to have a conversations end understanding clearly verbal communications , and many things about this country culture important date of history etc. I’m remember when I started studying in opening word I could not read write speak English only a few words and now I have done a lot first I did my HHA program in 2015 I am continued studying and now I have just received my nursing assistant program two weeks a go end now I’m starting for my phlebotomists certification for me it is a pleasure it is n honor and I feel very greteful whit this program it has tough me a lot

My experience so far has been very good. I think it is very important this program for people like me that we want improve our English .

All sisters and teachers are smiling all the time and they speaking with us while waiting rooms. They make me happy. I am waiting next class impatiently. They increase my willingness to learn more English. They so patience and kind for us. They have such a good heart. Also they are so thoughtfull and helpful. love all of them.

The Opening Word Program is like a family, the teachers are incredible they explain to us if we have doubts and they solve them for us. They introduce us to new topics and guide us to make a good decision. The atmosphere is very nice they make you feel comfortable during one learning english. It is an amazing place to learn the English language. Thank you for all that you do for us.

Opening Word truly benefits the Long Island Community. As a volunteer working with female English language learners, I have seen its power to help local women. Students learn the vocabulary and language skills to negotiate the community, qualify for jobs, and become citizens.
I enjoy assisting the women and partnering with the Dominican Sisters, and I find the whole experience richly rewarding.

The Opening Word is an outstanding program for immigrant women. The program's purpose is to empower women by teaching them English and prepare them for meaningful work in the United States. I have been a volunteer for approximately 10 years and witnessed many women blossom at The Opening Word. When the women first arrive, they are shy and lack confidence in their English language ability. After a short time, with encouragement, they soar! The Dominican sisters, the volunteers and the students truly enjoy the classroom time. I may be a volunteer, but I believe I get more from this program than I give. It is especially thrilling when a student becomes a U.S. citizen! The Opening Word is more than a school. It is a comforting, safe place for women to learn, meet others, form lasting friendships and grow in many ways they didn't realize was possible.

I've worked at Opening Word as a volunteer for 10 years. It has been extremely rewarding. I first started teaching ESL. The second year I was asked to teach the citizenship class. I was thrilled. Over the years, I've perfected the scope of what I teach. Most citizenship classes only review the 100 civics questions. Opening Word has very much expanded what it teaches. Reading and writing English is very important. We spend at least half the class doing both. I use many different techniques especially with the writing--the dictation of sentences. Then, of course, interspersed throughout the class we go over the 100 questions that pertain to each chapter in the book. Then, when it's time, I complete the 20-page application with the students going over each section explaining it and then having them fill out what pertains to them. Since the interview is so important, I go over the steps getting to the interview and proper etiquette. I have them do a practice run on getting there at the exact day and time their interview is scheduled. I show many different interviews on You Tube and we discuss each one at length. Then I do practice interviews with the students simulating what will happen at he interview. It gives them a lot of confidence. There are many different components to prepare them, but I won't let them take the test until they are ready. In the ten years I've been doing this, I have 100% passing. Without Opening Word, they would never have this opportunity.

When I first stepped into the Opening Word I knew there was something special about this place. I am a teacher here now and love what I do. The students in this program are some of the most motivated, passionate people I know. They come with varying abilities, resources and experiences, but in the classroom we are a community and a family. The many volunteers mostly come once a week from 9-12 to teach groups of students. They are always reliable and enthusiastic, and you can tell that they get as much out of this experience as the students do. Everyone who participates learns something every day. I am really happy to be a part of such a welcoming, supportive organization.

When I came to the U.S.A. I was very sad because I didn't understand English. When I found The Opening Word Program everything changed. I am thankful to the teacher for helping me to learn English as Second Language and to improve my computer skills and job readiness.
I hope they continue with their mission to change people's life.

I'm a student of Opening Word. I'm 24 years old and I'm From Mexico. I was looking for an English school near Copiague. First I went to ask information in Amityville and they told me about Opening Word in Wyandanch. My first day in Opening Word was good because all the teachers are lovely and friendly people and they create a nice ambiance. I love to see how the teachers enjoy teaching us. I recommend this program for empowering women, you can learn English practicing with the volunteers and students. I like to have different teachers every day, because they share with us what they know. I love this program!

I am so happy for this program because I am learning English. I like the teachers . I'm looking at the smiles of the women projecting good enthusiasm. I speak more English than last year and I write more English than last year. I'm very excited because I think this is the best program for me. I recommend this program for strong women who like to learn because it is very important to speak English in this country. God Bless this program.

My name is Cristina Hijar. I am from Peru. I have three months in the United States.
I am glad because thanks to my relatives and the staff of The Opening Word in Wyandanch I had the opportunity to study English as Second Language.
I love the teachers, friends that I made at school, the lesson plans and computer skills that I am learning everyday and their way of teaching. They make us feel like a part of their family and that make me feel at home.

My name is Yarisa Filpo. I'm from Dominican Republic and I'm eighteen years old. I just recently moved to this country and I'm a student from The Opening Word Program. I heard about this Program from my Uncle. He is a former student from Western Suffolk BOCES.
I like to study at this program. The study environment is very nice and appreciate the opportunity they gave to me to learn English.

I started with the program on September 12, 2018 in room 4A. I'm learning English and understand it so much better. I'm feeling happy, because I can communicate with others in English. Also, in this place I can see the love that the people have for us. They taught us understanding, writing, nutrition, training for jobs, but specially the bigger heart that Sister Laura has for us.

Mildred P.

It has been an honor and privilege as a Sister of St. Dominic to be a staff member of The Opening Word Program (TOW) these past 15 years. We work together with our Executive Director, Staff members, volunteers and our Board of Directors for the purpose of delivering ESL skills to immigrant women. Our mission to educate women comes from our philosophy that when you educate a woman, you educate her whole family. We bond with the educational system of BOCES for on-going professional development. The women we teach are so very grateful to be a part of a program that does all it can to help prepare them to eventually get a job, maintain the one they have or get something that will be more helpful in supporting their family, and their new country, America.

I retired from teaching high school in June 2018. I knew that I wanted to continue sharing my knowledge and language skills, but not in a traditional school setting. Living in the area, I was familiar with Sisters of St. Dominic and the Opening Word Program. I began volunteering in December 2018 and teach three mornings a week in the Wyndanch center. My experience, from day one, has been amazing. Both the staff and the students are highly motivated and it is a pleasure to work with both and to be part of such a wonderful program. The following are photos of Easter cakes we made. We combined newly acquired English language skills with food and got share the results with others at the program!

I have been a volunteer at the Opening Word Program for 14 years. As a retired teacher, I was looking to give back to the Long Island community in a way that would use my teaching skills. This experience has been so wonderful and rewarding. I feel I get much more from the program than I give. The women are eager to learn, the lessons are well planned to meet their needs, and the volunteer teachers are greatly appreciated. In the time I have worked in the program, I have seen it grow from a literacy program to include job training and instruction in computer literacy. Because of the kind, competent staff and the inspiring women, everyone involved seems to be willing to give their all. Just this past year, I have joined the program in a another role, that of Board Member. What a wonderful program this is for all!

The Opening Word Program is a literacy and job training program. Its purpose is to unlock the language ability of adult participants, providing them with a key to future personal empowerment. They learn grammar, conversation, reading and writing from Mon. to Fri., 9:00A.M-2:00 P.M.
Visit us online at www.openingword.org or contact 631-643-0541.

I just stared to attend English class at the Opening Word. I am from South Korea and I was a music teacher there. I came to the United States 3 years ago with my two children so they could attend the university here. I like living in the US, everything is very good but if you don't speak the language it is difficult. So I came to the Opening Word Program to learn English. I like it here because the people are very wonderful. The program is everyday which is good for learning a language. You learn about real life here. I am able to make a living teaching music to Korean students but it is not enough. I would like to be able to communicate well and teach all students. I especially would like to teach poor students so they could experience the joy that music brings.

I was attending the university in my country because I wanted to become a lawyer. But I was told that it was not safe for me and my children to remain in my country. So I had to leave the university with only one year remaining to receive my law degree. I came to the US 10 years ago. In order to support myself and my family I cleaned houses and worked in a beauty salon. When my employer died I lost my job. I knew if I wanted a better life, I needed to learn English. I learned about the Opening Word in my church bulletin. I love this program and I enjoy learning a new language from my wonderful teachers. My dream is to continue my studies here and acquire an excellent job, one that is challenging.

I am from Turkey and I came here 7 years ago. I was a kindergarten teacher in my country. My friends told me about the Opening Word Program which they were attending. I attended a different program which I did not enjoy. It was not enough, I wanted to learn more. Now that I go to this program, I love my school and my teachers. I'm happy because I'm learning a new language here. Our teachers are very good and very kind to us. Endless thanks to them. I would like to resume my career as a teacher which I am finished learning English.

I am a new volunteer and am awed by the passionate and compassionate way this program is run.

I joined OPening Word 5 years ago, just after their 20th Year Anniversary celebration. I volunteer as a computer technical support specialist, installing, maintaining, upgrading 35-40 desktop and laptop computers across 3 sites in impoverished areas of long island. These sites support an average of 250-270 students per school year and having waiting lists at all 3 sites. The student are immigrant women from the Americas, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. Due to financial circumstances, many work 1-2 jobs, often working overnight to clean offices, etc before coming to school each school day. They are always cheerful and positive and exude a deep pride in their native countries and in America. They attend class religiously, every day, in all weather, many walking several miles each way. It is very gratifying to see them advance to a new higher level classroom each new school year. Aside from language and citizenship classes, the learn the basics of computer technology, typing skills, resume preparation and interview training. It is a pleasure to see them receive their completion certificates during our recognition ceremonies at the end of each school year. I am blessed to be able to participate in this invaluable program.

I learned about this program at church. They said you could learn how to speak English if you attend. So I decided to come. I have been coming to class for 2 1/2 years and I have learned how to speak, read, write and correctly pronounce English. I also attended citizenship classes here and became a US citizen last June. Melissa, Cristina and Anne helped me through the process which is difficult. I was lucky to have help. This program is good for me because now I feel comfortable and understand how to fill out important forms and communicate. I no longer need to ask for assistance to do simple things. I am so happy because now I can help others with understanding English.

I arrived here from Colombia 10 years ago. I first lived in Florida and then moved to New York 2 months ago. My friend told me about The Opening Word and I decided to come here to learn how to speak English. I understand a little English but I want to learn more. I work now but would like to get a better job some day. I enjoy learning from the volunteer teachers. I learn many things from them. I have made many friends at class. This is a very good program for me, very nice.

This is my second year attending class at The Opening Word. I like coming to school here to learn to speak and write English. I have made many friends here. Every teacher is very nice especially Betsy who teaches me privately. I have learned a lot from her. Thank you to all the teachers.

I was certain I wanted to make a real difference in the world. After I graduated as a student in the Opening Word Program, I felt an obligation to share my knowledge and my skills with those who needed it most. After this past year, I believe I have done that. Working as a Volunteer and now as a teacher helped me reach out to a new generation of underprivileged people in dire need of real guidance and care. That’s what the program does.

I have been involved with The Opening Word Program for the past 7 years; as a volunteer ESL instructor and later as a grant writer and a member of the Board of Directors. The spirit of the wonderful women who attend our program is inspiring. Our students hail from countries all around he world; Central America, Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Many work long hours and walk quite a distance in all kinds of weather to attend class and learn English. Often I will see them assisting each other in order that all understand the lesson being taught. We are not just an ESL program, we see each women as a unique individual with unique needs and concerns. Opening Word treats the whole person not just their language needs. Our students know that it is a welcoming place in a sometimes harsh world.

This is my second year volunteering in the Opening Word Program in South Huntington. As a former teacher, I am truly inspired by the Director and Lead Teachers that invest so much of their time and enthusiasm each day with women who are highly motivated to learn English, despite everyday challenges. Lessons are geared to having the students meet with success in speaking and understanding English, writing for a purpose and becoming familiar with grammatically correct dialogues and everyday communication. Technology is becoming a more critical and exciting approach to their learning. Outside
nutritional programs are being incorporated. The materials used are current, leveled and consecutive in ability throughout each of the classes . Teachers have time to collaborate on the most effective approaches and never stop trying new material that may determine a positive effect in the students learning styles. It is truly a pleasure and honor to be an integral part of this very personal and inspiring program-The Opening Word.

The Opening Word program provides immigrant women with skills in English:
such as speaking through conversation, grammar,reading ,writing and math skills through practice.
The women have a comradery with each other and are made to feel comfortable
with the support of their instructors. They gain self confidence with their
progress and feel proud with these achievements. Many of the women also
study and succeed in becoming U. S. Citizens. They are able to be more effective at work and with their families. They help their children with schoolwork and model for them the promise of a successful future.
I am proud to be part of this program, knowing the relevance of this program
for the women that attend, for their families and the community in which they function. The Opening Word provides them with the hope that they will fulfill their dreams, improve their life and be productive Americans.

It is rewarding to witness the results of the fine work done by the Opening Word Program. Women enter the program with limited ability to speak English. They may or may not be fluent in one or more other languages but have a great desire to gain the ability to understand and speak English. These women sacrifice a great deal and come to the Opening Word Program everyday. The wonderful teachers and volunteers work closely with them each day to build their confidence and help them to enjoy their learning. At the end of each year if one attends the closing ceremony a person can observe not only the ability of these women to speak English, but it is also apparent that they have a desire to learn more and they are women who feel they can succeed. The work done in this Opening Word Program is not only needed, it is commendable. As a Sister of St. Dominic, I am in awe of this good work and happy to give witness to it. As a Board member, I am humbled by the ability to walk along side those who do such important work. My gratitude to all who work to help women of other cultures succeed. Sister Antoinette De Aveiro, OP