The Literate Mending Project at the International Language Institute of Massachusetts (ILI) unites immigrant and refugee learners to explore how language shapes identity and strengthens familial and cultural connections. Through innovative activities, such as creating language portraits, participants embrace their multilingual heritage while enhancing English skills. Led in partnership with UMass Amherst’s Professor Rebecca Lorimer Leonard, the project fosters pride in multilingualism and supports students in preserving and celebrating their cultural traditions.
Community Partners at Work!
Thanks to a District Grant from the Northampton Rotary Club, ILI has expanded volunteer tutor training for those working with immigrants and refugees in our free English classes. Tutors help students improve English skills to navigate life, work, and community in Massachusetts. Join us and make a difference!
Happy Birthday, ILI – 40 years and going strong!
By Steven Budd, ILI Volunteer and Spanish student After retiring some five years ago from college administration, I became a […]
Thinking Globally, Acting Locally
Pam Korza was born and raised in Northampton, MA and has never taken for granted its rich history, cultural and […]
Why Northampton, Massachusetts is a Great Place to Learn English
Northampton, Massachusetts, nestled in the heart of the Connecticut River Valley, is more than just a picturesque New England town. It’s a vibrant, culturally rich community that offers a unique and immersive environment for learning English.
Advancing Financial Literacy: ILI Celebrates Progress and Plans for Future Growth
Over the past two years, ILI and Valley Community Development have empowered non-native English speakers with financial and business education through the Small Business Fundamentals for ESOL program. Supported by the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation, this innovative curriculum has successfully graduated 42 participants, equipping them with essential skills for business ownership in the U.S.
ILI’s Highlights of 2023: You helped make them possible!
Free English classes welcome more immigrants and refugees than ever before! It was early 2023 when the MA Department of Elementary […]
Literate mending workshop at ILI, Northampton
For a few March nights, students in two classes of the Free English Program turned their learning lenses inward in an effort to understand how languages help form them.
Engaging our Volunteer Community through Learning—and fun!
Is there a better way to spend a Saturday morning in early March than picking up some new ways to better serve our community, meet like minded people, and have some delicious snacks?
Volunteer Spotlight: Drew David
Volunteer Spotlight Drew David has been volunteering as a tutor for ILI students since last August. He’s no stranger to […]