BACK
UNITY MAGAZINE - OCTOBER 2008
UNITED METHODIST COMMUNITY HOUSE:
BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS IN THE COMMUNITY
The Hispanic population of Grand Rapids and the larger West Michigan region has rapidly increased over the last few years. Due to this growth, communication barriers among Hispanics have become evident and problematic. While some Hispanics have become an influence on the economic and cultural life of the region by fostering growth and prosperity through the purchasing of homes, revitalization of neighborhoods and investments in new businesses, many Hispanics are unable to break down the communication barriers that restrict them from entering the world of success.
Having strong English language skills is something that is critically important in order to succeed in the America. Regardless of where a non-English speaking individual lives, what level of schooling he or she attains, or how long they have lived in this country, no factor contributes more to their success than fluency in English.
Unable to have direct communication, without barriers or impediments, Non-English speaking Hispanics often deal with isolation and division. This sets up an “us” and “them” situation in which Hispanics are separated from the rest of an organization or community simply due to their lack of English.
At United Methodist Community House (UMCH) we strive to contribute to reducing the language and cultural barriers that are present within our community. In order to achieve this, UMCH offers a class called English as a Second Language (ESL).
ESL, offered primarily to the Hispanic community, helps build, refresh and increase their knowledge of the English language.
This program is formatted for 12 weeks and during that time participants improve their usage of English and thus build their self-esteem. In addition to this, participants also eliminate the communication barrier within the English speaking community.
Miguel Abreu, a UMCH employee from the Dominican Republic who is a major asset to the ESL Program, notices that many of the participants in the ESL program are parents struggling with the English communication barrier that restricts them from fully entering the lives of their children.
“Parents want to be more involved in school activities, such as parent conferences, and help children with homework. They need to know Basic English to do that.
Parents also experience difficulty with doctors because it can be hard to communicate personal issues and key information unless they have someone to translate for them.
For work, they feel that if they don’t know English they can’t be promoted or improve their work. English also helps them to become a citizen.”
Although the ESL program is geared specifically towards Hispanics, UMCH is working towards expanding the program to include other linguistic groups as well.
For more information regarding ESL contact Miguel Abreu at (616) 452-3226 or visit us on the web at www.umchousegr.org