Program areas at International House
Children's programs childcare while parents participate in various life skills programs, International House offers childcare for their preschool children. Summer camp during the summer we offer a unique summer camp to children of refugees and internationals. We provide snacks, crafts, sports, games, swimming, and story time. International children have the opportunity to have american experiences in a safe environment while they begin to build long lasting relationships with volunteers and mentors. Shine girls club girls ages 8 to 18 can participate in a variety of activities while being mentored by women. Mommy and me english and homework help one evening a week, children of refugees from burma, specifically the zo people group, get assistance with homework or core concepts. College students and adults spend time mentoring and teaching children to promote a love of learning as well as mastering skills needed for educational success. Simultaneously, their mothers are offered in home tutoring in english.
English language learning ell in home tutoring in home tutors are connected with an International by our certified in-home tutor coordinators. In home tutors truly make a difference in the life of an International. Students have different goals for wanting to learn english. Our goal is to meet each student where they are and advance them to the level they strive for. In home tutors work one on one in lieu of a group setting. In addition, in home tutors have opportunities to be immersed in another culture, and are usually offered delicious ethnic food by their students english language learning english classes meet at our facilities as well as satellite locations throughout the city. Many of our classes provide childcare. There is no charge for the classes. Textbooks are free to use in the classroom. Dedicated volunteers and staff teach english to all levels. Ihouse trains willing volunteers to facilitate english lessons from beginner to advanced levels.
Women's and men's programs women's club International ladies meet weekly to learn english, participate in health instruction, or learn to sew, knit, and crochet. Childcare and transportation are provided for ladies in need, which is essential for many of the ladies. Women's club often offers the only chance weekly for the ladies to leave their homes and have help with their children. Fellowship is enjoyed at tea time where the ladies are treated to a relaxing time of food and beverages served and displayed with care and intention. The women's club host makes the deliberate choice to use elegant glass tableware and utensils instead of consumable plastic and paper products. Everything we do at women's club represents our desire to exhibit hospitality, love, and hope to the women who enter. Volunteers build genuine lasting relationships with women while they participate in classes. Women's club offers a venue for ladies to enjoy time away from their daily obligations in a safe and happy atmosphere. Family advocacy and transitional assistance many of our clients benefit from having an american "friend" serve as an advocate. Volunteers attend conferences at school, medical appointments, social services appointments, and assist in shopping and navigating the community. Man cave small engine repair, household projects, and small woodworking projects are a few of the options men have to engage in while in the "man cave", a safe place for International men to make an american friend and learn a skill. The "man cave" is a new remodeled addition to the ihouse facilities. Tools and project supplies are located on the property for volunteers and internationals to use while working together.
Citizenship classes qualified teachers and mentors walk internationals through the lengthy process of applying for citizenship. This class meets weekly at the ihouse facilities to review materials and prepare applications and evidence to be submitted to the united states citizenship and immigration services. Materials are provided to help the International navigate this process. Facilitators also meet one on one in homes for additional preparations.