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!
International Language Institute Connects Japanese Delegation with Easthampton’s Adhesive Applications
Five employees from Nachi-Fujikoshi, a Japanese corporation, studying English at ILI, toured Adhesive Applications in Easthampton to gain insight into U.S. business and manufacturing. This visit, part of their cultural immersion, highlights ILI’s partnership with local companies to provide customized language training.
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 […]
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.
Celebrating a Summer of Growth
Summer in New England means construction season, and Northampton’s Damon Road project has caused major traffic detours. Reflecting on this, ILI’s own renovation project has brought dust, noise, and uncertainty, but also unexpected growth.
Why Study a Language in Western Massachusetts? Here are 11 Reasons
New England may be famous for cozy fires in January, but come May, the scenery changes. As snow banks melt and crocuses bloom, Western Massachusetts awakens with activities to mark the arrival of spring.
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 […]
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?