News
Women and Families Center News
Web Site:
http://womenfamilies.org/
169 Colony St.,
Meriden, CT 06451
Tel: (203) 235-9297
Fax: (203) 237-7571
WFC provides a variety of educational, crisis support and childcare programs designed to improve the quality of life for women and families.
View all News Articles for Women and Families Center
WFC's English for the Workplace Program Offers New Beginnings
February 9, 2010
January marked the beginning of a new year and 2010 marked the beginning of a new decade but for participants in Open DOHR's English for the Workplace program it is the start of a new life with exciting opportunities. This intensive English as a Second Language program merges literacy and technology to prepare students for the workplace.The Women and Families Center's Open DOHR Program welcomed fifteen participants from around the globe including, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Morocco, Haiti, Cuba and Columbia. Each student's native country is a reflection of the wonderful diversity found in the city of Meriden. English for the Workplace draws individuals from all walks of life, work experiences and education. Despite all their differences, it is clear that what unites them is the need and desire to learn English.
As the first week ended, student's fears and worries have subsided and newly formed relationships have already emerged. Students came to the support of their Haitian classmates in this time of terrible crisis. This program offers more than just classroom training, it offers students a safe environment to develop lasting relationships with staff and classmates. One afternoon at the end of class, a message appeared on the white board. It read "Paula, Karlene, Maria, Sara- Your program Open DOHR is Great!!! The teachers are terrific! I am very happy for this. Thanks!" Another student shared that it has only been three weeks and his wife and family get excited when he is able to respond to them correctly in English. The staff and students are looking forward to celebrating many more successes over the coming months. Spring sessions are now enrolling. For more information about the English for the Workplace Program please contact Maria Velez, Employment Specialist at (203) 235-9297 Ext129.
Member News is provided as a service of the Midstate Chamber of Commerce and is also featured in the monthly "Chamber News" newsletter mailed to members.
The “original publication date” of Member News articles posted on this web site reflects the date this article was added to the Chamber database and may not necessarily reflect the date such news events occurred.