How Learning English Breaks Barriers

One of our key programs at Grace Care Center is our English classes

We often speak about how learning English empowers participants to break barriers. But what exactly do we mean by that?

In this blog, we share how having access to affordable English classes makes a difference for our neighbors here in Central Indiana.

Learning English is Life-Changing

Being able to attend English classes that meet you where you’re at is incredibly impactful – in more ways than one.

Learning English as a second language can have major economic benefits, such as better employment and higher education opportunities. 

Developing English language skills also has social benefits. Everything from grocery shopping to interacting with a child’s teacher to making a friend can become easier. 

That’s what we mean when we say that learning English breaks barriers – English language and literacy skills literally open doors. 

The English Language in Indiana

But let’s take a look at the state of the English language in Indiana, and just how easy (or not easy) it is to learn English as a second language in our state. 

Number of English Speakers in Indiana

According to this source, around 10.3% of Indiana households have reported speaking a primary language other than English at home. 

Although this doesn’t mean that the individuals in these households aren’t proficient English speakers, it does point to the diversity of languages that can be found in our state.

At the same time, that means nearly 90% of Indiana households do speak English as their primary language at home. This shows that learning English is practically a must for anyone looking to socialize or interact with neighbors, coworkers, and peers. 

What's more, this study that was recently conducted in Indianapolis points to an interesting fact - 23% of surveyed immigrants had limited formal education and 31% were emergent readers of English. This lack of formal education, even in their native language, can make it more difficult for these individuals to learn English.

Limited Learning Opportunities

Even though the need for accessible English classes is clearly present, there are several barriers to learning English in Indiana.

The same study found that 80% of those surveyed were not currently enrolled in English classes, and 67% have never been enrolled. 

Many Hoosiers surveyed aren’t able to make time for English classes due to their children’s school or sports schedules, managing family responsibilities, dealing with their own health or that of a loved one’s, and a lack of childcare. 

Still others cited learning difficulty or lack of confidence – especially among those emergent readers – as reasons for never having enrolled or for leaving a class.

And the primary barrier to English classes was found to be work. Although English literacy can open up employment opportunities, many have found that inflexible work schedules, mandatory overtime, or even just work-related fatigue have kept them from attending.

So, how do we make things a little easier on our neighbors looking to learn English? By developing English classes that remove as many obstacles as possible.

Grace Care Center’s Accessible English Classes

The English classes offered by Grace Care Center help 150 people each year learn English as a second language.

We strive to make our English program as accessible as we can by offering $25 classes for all skill levels and proficiencies. People just starting on their English language journey, those looking to refine their skills, and those who fall somewhere in between are all welcome. 

Just like other Care Center Services, English Classes are volunteer-led. Volunteer instructors work through a curriculum in a very hands-on classroom setting that allows for questions and a lot of language application exercises. 

Grace Care Center’s English classes are offered on Monday evenings. The timing of our classes falls when many of our participants are able to step away from work and other responsibilities, making them even more accessible.

It is our goal to help our students learn English in a welcoming and nurturing environment that focuses on building confidence along with skills. By doing so, we are truly empowering them to break barriers at work, in school, and in our community!

How You Can Help Others Learn English

You can help others learn English through accessible classes offered right here in Central Indiana.

Your donations to the Grace Care Center Foundation go toward funding English classes so that we can keep participant costs as low as possible. Your donation covers materials, books, and more!Grace Care Center also runs smoothly thanks to hundreds of volunteers each week. Volunteering your time is a great way to give back and serve others.

No matter how you step forward, know that you are making an impact and improving the lives of your neighbors!