Sue: English Classroom Volunteer

1. You could share your valuable time and skills with many deserving non-profits. Why do you choose to donate your time to the International Institute of Minnesota? 

I am happy to volunteer my time to the Institute because it is a model for how the world should be: people from all over the world meeting, learning together, supporting each other, and all while treating one another with respect and kindness.  If only everyone and every place could be so welcoming and supportive!

2. What kind of volunteering do you do with us?

I began volunteering at the Institute doing housing set-ups for new immigrants.  A group of us would arrange furniture, make the beds, stock the cupboards, and make the home inviting for the families right before they arrived in Minnesota. 

Currently I volunteer for a conversation group, an informal group that meets most days before English class, where students of all levels are welcome to practice their English and conversation skills.  I also volunteer in English class, where I assist by working in small groups, helping students with their work, and sometimes leading activities.  During Operation Metro Surge, when we weren’t able to have in-person classes, I helped deliver groceries to students. 

I also started a fundraiser called “We Need to Come Together,” selling car magnets from which all profits go to the International Institute’s Basic Needs Fund.  Besides raising money for the Institute, the goal of “We Need to Come Together” is to unite Americans through the values we need and also to build community. 

Please support this fundraiser by going to one of the Twin Cities shops selling the car magnets:

• Corazon in Minneapolis
• Needle & Skein in St. Louis Park
• Caydence Records and Coffee in St. Paul
• Day by Day Cafe in St. Paul
• Centromex Supermercado in St. Paul

Car magnets can also be purchased at Etsy.

3. Can you share a memory of a volunteer moment that helped make this work rewarding for you? 

During Operation Metro Surge I ended up delivering groceries to one of the students who had been in my English class.  Many students, like him, had been stuck at home for weeks living in fear, so for us both to see a familiar face, and for me to know he was safe was really uplifting.

During housing set-ups we were sometimes able to meet the immigrants who were moving in.  It was so rewarding to welcome them to their new homes. In class the best times are when we are learning or conversing and we all share a laugh together. Laughter really brings people together. 

4. What kind of impact do you hope your volunteer work has?

I hope my volunteering at the Institute helps immigrants feel welcomed to our country and encouraged, and I hope the car magnet sales help build community while also raising money for the Institute.

5. Why is this work important to you?

This work is important to me because immigrants and all people deserve a safe, welcoming home where they can receive an education and work to provide for themselves and their families.