International Learning Center Print

Since 1981, the International Learning Center (ILC) has provided English as a Second Language Instruction to nearly 400 adult refugees on an annual basis. Countries of origin for the student population span across many parts of Southeast Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe, and and draw from over one 15 different languages and dialects. Our focus is to provide literacy and communication and life skills to refugees who have had little or no prior education in their own country. Please visit the International Learning Center's website for more information about programming, news, and opportunities: http://ilcmilwaukee.wordpress.com/

Programs

The ILC's programs utilize a variety of creative teaching methods tailored towards successfully working with students of diverse cultural and educational backgrounds. Culturally competent speaking, listening, and reading curricula provide a strong foundation for achieving success outside of the classroom.

  • ESL classes
  • Pre-GED classes
  • Citizenship classes
  • Basic Computer instruction
  • Family literacy
  • Financial and Health Literacy
  • Math
  • On-site licensed preschool for children 2 and ½ to 5 years of age with a home visitation component.  Preschool provides age appropriate activities that develop the physical, social, emotional and literacy skills of the children. Children develop English language skills necessary for school.

Community Support

  • Milwaukee Area Technical College provides part-time instructors, computer and Internet access for student use
  • Volunteers from churches, businesses and the community at large provide numerous hours of service
  • Program site for UWM, MIAD and Marquette Service Learning
  • Contributions from businesses, foundations, individuals and churches are vital
  • An Adult and Family Literacy grant from the State of Wisconsin funds staff and materials
  • Funds from the State Office of Refugee Resettlement enable the ILC to provide educational and support services to new refugees

Collaborations

  • Member - Greater Milwaukee Literacy Coalition
  • Member - Volunteer Center of Milwaukee
  • UW-Extension Wisconsin
  • Literacy Milwaukee Area Refugee Consortium - Jewish Family Services, Lutheran Social Services, Catholic Charities, International Institute
  • HIRE Center
  • MATC
  • Maximus
  • Prevent Blindness
  • Sebastian Family Pyschology
  •  Hmong American Women’s Association

Contribute to ILC

  • Become a Volunteer - Knowledge of students' language is NOT necessary.
  • Teach a citizenship class one day or evening per week
  • Assist classroom teachers by tutoring
  • Assist the math lab one or more days per week
  • Assist students using computers to practice English
  • Assist in early childhood classroom

If you're interested in contributing, please call the International Learning Center at (414) 344-4777.