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!
Kris Holloway joins International Language Institute’s board of directors
Kris Holloway has joined the International Language Institute of Massachusetts (ILI) all-volunteer board of directors. She brings a wealth of […]
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.
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 […]
TESOL Certificate course online: Top 10 Advantages
If you’re interested in teaching English to speakers of other languages, the best way to
further your career is to pursue a TESOL certificate online or in-person. A TESOL certificate program provides individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to teach English as another language.
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.
ILI is the secret sauce – A Word from Markus Jones
Markus Jones, ILI Volunteer and President of ILI’s Board, recently took some time to talk about what ILI means to […]