Burlington Resident Recognized for Helping Newcomers Succeed in Massachusetts

The following is from The Immigrant Learning Center in Malden:

Lamia Wilson, of Burlington, was honored on May 4, 2012, by The Immigrant Learning Center , Inc. (ILC) for helping immigrants and refugees achieve their goals and participate more fully in Massachusetts society.  Under the direction of ILC teachers, volunteers spend three or more hours every week helping foreign-born adults learn English reading, writing, grammar and conversation skills and increase their understanding of American culture.  They assist in the classroom with currently-enrolled students and work one-on-one with some of those waiting to be enrolled who would not otherwise receive assistance.

The students speak 36 different native languages from Arabic to Mandarin to Spanish. The volunteers not only get the satisfaction of helping their students attain goals such as getting a job, entering college, becoming a citizen or starting a business, they learn some of the students’ languages and cultures in the process. This kind of learning exchange helps to create an environment of cultural and linguistic appreciation in Boston-area communities.  

New volunteers are always welcome. For more information about the volunteer program, contact Holly Jones at 781-332-9777.

About The Immigrant Learning Center, Inc.

The Immigrant Learning Center, Inc. (ILC) of Malden, Mass, is a not-for-profit organization that helps immigrants and refugees become successful workers, parents and community members through direct service programs and public education. Our direct service program provides free year-round English classes to immigrant and refugee adults in Greater Boston.  The ILC further supports immigrants through the Public Education Institute, which informs Americans about the economic and social contributions of immigrants in our society. For more information, visithttp://www.ilctr.org.