136 Pageviews Read Stories
Causes: Adult Education, Arts & Culture, Cultural & Ethnic Awareness, Education, International, Job Training, Promotion of International Understanding
Mission: ILI’s mission is to promote intercultural understanding and diverse communities by providing high-quality language instruction and teacher training. ILI is more than a language learning center. We are students, teachers, and community supporters who passionately believe that by working together, we advance our mission to encourage multicultural understanding and create strong diverse communities through academic excellence. We celebrate the rich cultural traditions of our students and will continuously strengthen our unified commitment to honor and respect them and all of our neighbors–regardless of race, religion, gender identification, physical and mental abilities, economic standing, educational levels, and documentation status. We stand against deeply rooted racism and injustice, economic and educational inequality, and anti-immigrant and anti-refugee policies. We stand against any assaults on democratic institutions that we believe are the foundation of our communities and our nation. As an organization, we strive to make our decisions based on these principles, including active participation in naming what we know is wrong. We believe that all of our actions should stem from grace and loving kindness.
Results: Since 1984, thousands of students—from more than 90 countries, from across the U.S., and from western Massachusetts—have successfully completed our courses and classes. Hundreds of community volunteers have broadened their cultural horizons as tutors, mentors, and host families.
Target demographics: adults improve their language skills
Direct beneficiaries per year: 600 students
Geographic areas served: Northampton, Massachusetts
Programs: Free English classes for immigrants and refugees, language classes in French, German, Italian, Spanish, Teacher Training Certificate Courses, Workplace Training, Intensive English Program