There was reason for celebration at The Kennett Library on May 29th when English language learners completed their first round of classes for workforce development.<\/p>\n
The initiative is the result of a partnership between The Welcoming Center (TWC), a 501 (C)(3) nonprofit based in Philadelphia and the Kennett Library Adult Literacy Program.<\/p>\n
Anuj Gupta, TWC President & CEO, said, \u201cThe focus of our workforce model has always been one that by helping immigrants realize their full economic potential, we\u2019re helping our entire community realize more economic opportunity through this project.\u201d<\/p>\n
Through four core programs: English and Digital Skills, Work Readiness, Entrepreneurship, and Community Leadership, TWC helps immigrants build skills, confidence and agency to overcome barriers and achieve economic mobility.<\/p>\n
Founded in 2003, TWC provides a variety of services for immigrants from all over the world who reside in the Philadelphia region. Whether an immigrant is looking for meaningful employment, wants to start or grow a business, or be socially engaged, they are there to support achieving their goals.<\/p>\n
Receiving a $1M grant from the Pennsylvania Legislature, Gupta said, \u201cI think because we\u2019ve got a strong track record the leaders in the Philadelphia delegation and beyond were able to subscribe to what we have done with the idea that we can start to replicate that success in other communities.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kennett Square area has become TWC\u2019s first PA outreach. To start, TWC conducted a needs assessment with the Kennett Library for immigrant residents to figure out what kind of programming would be of interest to community members.\u00a0 Gupta said, \u201cWe want to do it in a way that adds value to the communities that we intend to serve. And we can\u2019t prescribe that; we needed to get some real information on what they think they need.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cEnglish for Workplace Communication\u201d was held for 60 hours over 12 weeks. Twelve students completed requirements, which ended in a group project presentation to the class.\u00a0 Christian, one of the students, said, \u201cI learned so many English words for the job environment and thought the classes were amazing. I was nervous when I made a presentation with the topic of my choice\u2013 workforce benefits\u2013but gained confidence as my teachers and classmates cheered me on.\u201d<\/p>\n
Tomas, another student, said, \u201cThis class helped me understand the differences of my Mexican culture and the American ways. We acted out communications (role played) to see how to talk to each other better. I have been in the Kennett area for four years and this was a whole new opportunity for me to get ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n
The next series of classes is entitled, \u201cEnglish for Job Search.\u201d It will teach how to look for desired employment, how to prepare a resume, how to prepare for interviews, and more about how to acclimate to the American culture. This session will be held for 80 hours over 14 weeks. Some of the previous students will participate, and recruitment for this late August start-date will take up to 20 students.<\/p>\n
The celebration event was festive and well attended. The Welcoming Center teachers and administration as well as the Kennett Library staff and government officials all gave praise and recognition to the students for their perseverance and commitment by passing out certificates stating completion. Chris Manna, Executive Director of the Kennett Library, in his presentation said, \u201cEducation is hope. Learning is life-long.\u201d<\/p>\n
Filomena Elliott, Director of the Kennett Library Adult Literacy Program, shared: \u201cI look forward to expanding the partnership with The Welcoming Center as we continue to give the participants skills to be able to succeed in the workforce. Chris Manna and Anju Gupta are visionary leaders, and this workforce development program demonstrates that education becomes a win-win not only for the students but for the whole community.\u201d<\/p>\n