We are about relationships. Relationships that are cross-cultural and language barriers. Relationships that engage individuals one-on-one in real and meaningful ways. We aren’t just about doing stuff for refugees, but about doing life with them. Jesus crossed from heaven to earth. Refugees cross oceans and continents. We, the Church, simply have to cross town… and befriend those whom God brings into our neighborhoods.
Crossings is a local ministry to refugees with the goal of fostering healthy relationships between the Church and refugees. God is bringing the nations to our city, and we want to reach out to them in his name. Our desire is to welcome refugees, assist them with the transition into American culture, and build healthy, long-term friendships with them.
About the Crossings ESL Center
Did you know that CCC partners with Urban Vision and North High School to teach English as a Second Language to adults in Akron? There are currently 84 adult students studying English as a Second Language (ESL) through the Crossings ESL Center – and new students show up every week! These people now call Akron home and are from all over the world, including Burma, Nepal, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Palestine, Mexico, Guatemala, as well as many other locations. Being in a new place with new people, they have a strong desire to learn English.
Classes take place in the mornings and evenings at Urban Vision and in the afternoon at North High School. As teachers, volunteers immediately have their students’ trust and respect. So as students master the language, volunteers have tremendous opportunities to celebrate alongside them. Ideally, ESL is learned in small groups.
Make a Difference by Teaching Others
We have a nice-sized group of volunteers, but with this many students, we really need more helpers in order to have a better student-to-teacher ratio. Our biggest need is for helpers at Urban Vision on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9:00-11:30 a.m. If you’re reading this and are any of the following, you’d be a perfect fit to serve:
- We need individuals who are kind, patient, adaptable, and coachable.
- You do not need experience teaching ESL; we can offer training.
- You do not need to speak any foreign languages in order to serve.
- You can teach either one day or both days, whatever works for you.
- You will never be asked to do more than you are comfortable with. You will not be in charge of entire classes – you will serve as class helpers who are given a small group of students to work with each day.
- You will not have to worry about lesson planning because the lead teachers will do that.
“I said yes to helping at Urban Vision because we’ve been talking about serving in our community group. What I discovered is, I am the one who has been blessed. These dear people are so appreciative and eager and hard working. I look forward to every Tuesday!” – Lori, CCC member, and Crossings volunteer
If you’d like to learn more, feel free to email [email protected].