PURPOSE
Less than 4% of English learners in the U.S. have access to the quality English instruction they need for work and community. We’re working to change that. Thanks to our funders, New Mainers across the state can access a high-quality, online English-learning program offered by EnGen, or visit one of our in-person classes across the Portland area.
“As a major employer in Maine, MaineHealth aims to attract and develop the best workforce. We understand opportunities lie in greater innovation and partnerships like this one with the Immigrant Welcome Center – whether it is enhanced language skills to strengthen and build career pathways or self-directed learning opportunities for our employees.”
WHY ENGLISH LANGUAGE ACQUISITION MATTERS
English proficiency is an essential gateway to economic opportunity for immigrant workers. Yet access to acquiring these skills is persistently limited by a lack of resources and attention. Increasing investment in adult English instruction—through targeted outreach and digital language literacy —will enhance the human capital of immigrants that could lead to enhanced career opportunities and better outcomes for their families.
Through the iEnglish Project, we hope to provide regional business leaders with the opportunity to enhance the economic mobility of their current and future workforce by investing in adult English instruction.
Take courses on topics such as:
English for all Proficiency Levels • Healthcare • IT • Financial Literacy
Citizenship Test Preparation • Food & Drink • Tourism and Hospitality
Customer Service • Human Resources • Business Communication
Digital Literacy • Construction • And More!
THE LEARNING PLATFORM
The iEnglish Project is powered by a digital English training platform, which improves careers and performance by breaking down workplace language barriers.
Our benefits include:
Learning at Scale: Our web platform and integrated mobile app allow training for anyone, anywhere.
Personalized Training: Our technology and certified online teachers improve English learning by adapting and personalizing instruction for each individual. Courses adapt to an individual’s interest, goals, and proficiency level, and are all self-paced.
Program and Performance Visibility: Instructors and learners alike can track progress in real-time.
Learning for the Real World: Our task-based approach and career-aligned content supports learners with the skills they actually need to get the job done.
If you are a business looking for an English language learning platform for your employees, or if you are a nonprofit looking to partner with us to further serve your clients, please email us at info@welcomeimmigrant.org or call us at (207) 517-3401.
Interested in our programs? Apply below:
our language lab
Our Language Lab is housed at our 24 Preble St. on the 4th floor and is open to clients who want to practice using our online English program. Clients can sign up for a 2 hour slot twice a week and get personalized practice and support from our lab staff.
Note: you must have an appointment to use the lab.
Lab Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday-Sunday: Closed
If you are a new client looking to register with our learning program, please visit us at our office (24 Preble Street, Portland, ME, 4th Floor) to complete an intake form, and book a first-time appointment.
If you are a returning client looking to book your next appoint, click the link below. Please only book two appointments per week.
Our English Conversation Classes
Our English Conversation Classes provide a welcoming environment for New Mainers to practice their language skills, improve fluency, and build confidence in speaking English. Led by experienced instructors, the classes are tailored to all levels and are held on the first floor of our Center, offering participants a chance to enhance their communication skills and connect with others in the community.
If you’re interested in joining a class, come by our first floor on Monday mornings between 10:30 and 11:30 for a brief placement test. The center will also be open for walk-in English classes on Fridays.
Alain Jean Claude Nahimana Scholarship
In 2020, we lost IWC’s founder and leader, Alain Jean Claude Nahimana. In his memory, EnGen (formally Voxy) donated scholarships to keep English instruction access free for qualifying community members. Through this tribute to his legacy, we continue to honor Alain’s vision.
Learn more about the iEnglish Project from Bénédicte Wonganombe, program participant
Email us to learn more or to get involved with the iEnglish Project.