The People's Money (2022-2023)

Developed by C.A.G. Richmond Ave

What problem would you like to solve?

ESL programs do not outreach to communities in need of classes. Interpreter services via telephone can interrupt rapport with a client. More and more flexible ESL programs are required with ESL instructors that can take the extra step of connecting clients with resources.

Why is it important to solve? Why is it relevant for the community?

Latinx identifying persons make up one third of the NYC population and yet are one of the most under-served communities. One quarter of the city reported difficulties communicating English on the last census. New residents of the city do not know where to go to take ESL classes or to receive further aid. New residents can be overwhelmed and additional interpretive services offered by a person who can also register the for classes and direct them to other resources would be welcome

What idea do you have to address the problem?

Create a program wherein 3 people (referred to hereafter as educators) outreach to the community to offer free ESL classes, starting with 3 classes per week and increasing classes with outreach efforts. Outside of these classes, the educators can be booked for one hour periods by any non-profit or private charitable entity to facilitate translation services in person. This program will be offered as a one year contract to an agency with vehicles that can transport people to their ESL classes if needed. This program will operate as a pilot program and will use data tracking and surveys to measure how many clients received aid and if that aid made a difference in their lives.

The educators will maintain a home office to save on rent for the project, and will commute to sites using their own or provided agency vehicles. Educator responsibilities include: Teaching at least one 2 hour ESL class of 20 people each daily, outreaching to primarily Latinx communities with new city residents to refer to services and to enroll in ESL classes, transporting clients to classes and services (if possible due to liability concerns), and providing in person translation services for one hour periods by appointment.

Budget:

3 educators at $50,000 each (includes admin costs for contracted agency

10k for rent for class space if space cannot be donated

10k for incentives to attend the class and metrocards to travel to the class

Who would that help?

Newly arrived residents of NYC that speak Spanish as their only or primary language

What NYC borough would benefit from your idea?

Staten Island