All-Staff Meeting Kicks Off a New Academic Year
Center for New Americans (CNA) colleagues met and connected over coffee to prepare for welcoming students back to our free ESOL (English Speakers of Other languages) classes. After catching up with each other, staff split off into groups to complete an interactive review of our mission, as well as vital program components, protocols, and priorities that make CNA such an impactful organization.
We were joined by two former students—Rahmatullah, a former student and client who is now a Holyoke Community College (HCC) student, and Guy, a new U.S. citizen—who told staff first-hand about the difference that CNA makes in the lives of newcomers.
First to speak was Rahmatullah, who completed our program last year. He participated in our free ESOL classes, got hired at River Valley Coop with facilitation from CNA, and got immigration legal support from our team. We are thrilled to report that he has just enrolled at HCC!
“Thank you all CNA staff always. They do best for people. I’m so happy we have a CNA. They did a lot of help with me for my work, for my English, for my immigration applications, for everything. I am so happy for that.”
—Rahmatullah, former student/client
Guy, a former client who was recently naturalized, also joined us. He told the group that he had such a great experience that he wants to “pay it forward” by interpreting for our organization, as he speaks a few languages.
As we gear up for this year’s classes, we find motivation in the successes and transformations shared by Rahmatullah and Guy. Their journeys are a testament to the power of community, education, and support that CNA strives to offer every newcomer. Our team is inspired by their words and energized to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of those seeking a better future.
Here’s to another year of growth, connection, and opportunity at CNA!
