The Opening Word
The Opening Word is a non-denominational holistic literacy, ESOL, and job
readiness program dedicated to helping immigrant and refugee women. Its mission
is to enable future personal empowerment, increased civic and social responsibility
and enhanced skills for membership in the workforce. The program provides
coaching and financial and legal assistance for Citizenship classes as well.
Students have come from over 45 countries. Current students have lived
everywhere from Central and South America to Afghanistan. The Opening Word
Program needs volunteers to work weekday mornings as teacher aides with New
York State certified teachers. Clients not only develop English fluency but acquire
practical aspects of life in America such as how to read a medicine label,
correspond with their children’s teacher, schedule a medical appointment, and read
recipes and nutrition labels.
Other volunteer positions include teaching simple finance and computer skills,
coaching candidates for citizenship exams, and helping with fundraising events.