Volunteers Help Ethiopian Israelis Learn English via Zoom
When children of Ethiopian immigrants enter the Israeli job market, English language proficiency can be a significant hurdle. Members of Highland Park Conservative Temple – Congregation Anshe Emeth are doing something about that. To date, seven of them have volunteered for English B’Yachad, a program that offers free English language tutoring to underserved Israeli young adults.
“This was a way for me to strengthen my connection to Israel on a personal level,” says volunteer Kira Belkin, “and to help address income inequality among marginalized populations there.” Stuart Feinblatt saw this as a practical way to support Israel, saying, “I am happy to use my native English skills to promote opportunities and help advance Israel’s economy.”
Each tutor and student meet weekly via Zoom for about an hour. Depending on the student’s goals, they may focus on writing, conversation, or reading and vocabulary. English B’Yachad provides resources for working on various skills.
To volunteer, email Marla Gamoran at mgamoran@skillvolunteerisrael.org or visit www.skillvolunteerisrael.org.
