English helps immigrants

Published 11:08 pm Sunday, September 27, 2009

EVERETT — It’s never too late to learn English.

Volunteers at a local community center will tell you that much, said Karina Jimenez, a program assistant at Familias Unidas, a program of Lutheran Community Services Northwest.

The center is run in partnership with its sister program, the South Everett Neighborhood Center. Many families from south Everett’s immigrant community receive services there, Jimenez said. The centers offer classes based on what their clients want, such as parenting and financial literacy. English classes are always in high demand.

Many people come to the Everett area as refugees, which means they have a lot of adjustments to make. As these newcomers get settled in their new country, they seek skills that will help them succeed professionally and live a fuller, more comfortable life, Jimenez explained.

Speaking English is essential for such advancement. It opens doors to other resources in the community, and allows parents to be more involved in their kids’ school life, including helping with homework, she said.

Still, learning a new language is no easy task for most adults, she said.

The center currently offers two ongoing classes, on Wednesday and Friday nights. Students range in age from 18-year-olds to couples in their 60s. It’s never too late, Jimenez said.

“We are like a small house, so we kind of set up that family environment,” she said. “There’s no need to feel intimidated. You are with community members, and everyone is here to learn.”

Katya Yefimova: 425-339-3452, kyefimova@heraldnet.com.

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