English as a Second Language
For almost all the refugees who come to West Michigan, English is not their first language. Most refugees have had some exposure to English, either in their home countries, or in refugee camps, but most need to improve their English skills upon arrival.
Bethany facilitates this by arranging for refugees to attend classes offered in the community, and by providing more individualized learning opportunities directly through Bethany agencies.
PARA has an English tutoring program that matches up volunteers, one-on-one, with refugees.
The unaccompanied minor program has a similar one-on-one program, and also offers small group-style lessons.
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