This program offers 12 sessions of English instruction to non-English speaking and those with limited a limited knowledge of English.
Our first classes started in 2001 and have been continuing since.
People who do not speak English and wish to live and work in the United States are at a distinct disadvantage when trying to obtain housing and employment. United States Census data reveal that English speaking immigrants earn twice as much on average as their non-English speaking counterparts. This data was highlighted in a 2004 Educational Testing Service report on the literacy of United States immigrants. It showed that immigrants who have a command of English had incomes of $40,741 compared to $16,345 for immigrants who do not speak English. Community based organizations are the places that many of these people are turning to so that they can learn English for free or for a minimal cost.
Our ESL program began in 2001 when Barbara Smith, a certified ESL teacher, realized the fact that many people could not afford the high costs of English classes. She wanted to give back to the community by helping meet the needs of many people that could not afford the high prices that colleges and adult learning centers were charging. Our sessions consist of four levels that range from introductory English language through to advanced grammar and conversation classes. Many of our students that have begun our program barely speaking any English have worked their way through the different levels of study to advanced conversation sessions. Our students have helped our program to grow by encouraging other members of their families and communities to join our classes.
Our ESL program continues to grow thanks to our dedicated staff of volunteer teachers and members of the community that provide hospitality and support to the program.
As of the Fall of 2019, Care on the Corner has offered 35 semesters at 12 weeks each of English as a Second Language (ESL) serving over 1,492 individuals from 103 countries.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we had to cancel future classes. We look forward to offering classes soon.