community training
Want to make a difference in your community but not sure how to start?
Many ESL programs only focus on adults, excluding families who also need childcare, homework help and community support. At Festa, we meet the whole family’s needs by providing dinner, childcare and academic support for children and teens while parents learn English. This holistic approach allows families to thrive together.
Reach out to Festa - we’ll show you how you can start making an impact.
3-Generations
Because we provide childcare and homework help, the whole family can attend, allowing for more than just one adult's English needs to be met and providing support for the family as a unit.
Cost Effective
We host programming in church buildings that would otherwise sit empty in the evening hours. Through partnerships made with local churches, we're able to use their facilities for zero cost.
Army of Volunteers
Through ongoing volunteer recruitment, we are able to bring together thousands of individuals from all backgrounds to serve our newest neighbors from around the world. Volunteers play key roles - assisting in ESL classrooms, caring for babies and toddlers, serving dinner to the children and helping with homework.
Builds Community
Due to the holistic nature of this programming, community blossoms. Bi-annual potlucks and child-led entrepreneurial programming bring hundreds of cultures together to get to know one another and form much-needed connections and lasting friendships.
“Festa was an integral part of equipping our team with the knowledge, support and hands-on training for initiating our whole family ESL program. Under their tutelage, we were able to create a program that was tailored to our families and our unique needs. Our family ESL program is a critical part of how we walk with new immigrants in our community. We love the whole family component of the program as it allows each member of the family to build relational connections which are vital for personal growth and are a key factor in determining their quality of life as a New American.”
—Tamara Reed
Executive Director, Daily Needs Assistance
Plain City, Ohio
“After meeting with Kim and learning about Festa's work, I knew this program was exactly what Springfield needed. I partnered with the Nehemiah Foundation to make it happen. We were awarded a grant that allowed us to enroll in Festa’s training to learn from the best. Kim and her team guided us through six or seven sessions, covering everything from setting up an English program for adults to ensuring the safety of children. They shared invaluable advice on a variety of best practices based on their years of experience. While we could have tried to figure it out on our own, it was far better to learn from a team who’s already navigated the challenges and knows what works. We are so grateful for Kim and her team's expertise, passion and generosity in sharing their knowledge.”
—Sandy Thompson
Executive Director, Grace Lutheran Church
Springfield, Ohio
Christianity Today Compassion Award
We were honored to play a part in mobilizing 20+ church and community organizations to serve the residents of Springfield, Ohio. This is evidence the growth we talk about at Festa isn't just a good idea on paper - our nationally recognized 3-Generation Family ESL model works, and it is changing lives.
Ready to make a change in your community?
At Festa, our heart is to end poverty through life-changing relationships and we believe this program is doing just that. We want every individual in the U.S. to have access to this comprehensive program, but we can’t do it alone.
Want to see a 3-Generation Family ESL program in your community but don't know where to start? Reach out to Festa - we’ll show you how you can start making an impact.
Start a new program in your community
Coaching for existing ESL programs
Enhance or add to your existing ESL program
Depending on your needs, Festa offers a 6-week training series (virtual or in person). Learn from 18 years of experience running this program and receive beginner resources and materials at the end of training. If you’re ready to begin or want to continue the conversation, fill out the form below and we will get in touch.
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Want More Information?
Reach out with some information about your community and we'll be in touch with some next steps!
