Organization Description

Mission: ILI is a language learning center whose mission is to promote intercultural understanding and diverse communities by providing high-quality language instruction and teacher training. The organization welcomes all and makes a strong commitment to ensuring community honor and respect. 

Goals: ILI’s goals are to promote cultural competence, language learning, and celebrate the rich cultural traditions of its students.  


Placement Description

  • Tutor: Work with adult English learners studying in ILI’s free English classes for immigrants and refugees living in Western MA (Classes meet in the evenings on Zoom and in-person at ILI)
  • Lunchtime Conversation Assistant: From 12pm-1pm, come to ILI, and chat with students in the Intensive English Program during their one-hour lunch break
  • Volunteer Activity Leader: Host indoor afternoon activities (after 2:30) for small groups, such as a game afternoon at ILI (all ideas are welcome), and take small groups (~2-6) of students on outings around Northampton within walking distance to ILI  
  • Media and/or Writing Volunteer: Create Language Travel brochures using Canva. Write articles related to language or culture, and interview ILI students to write up interviews for publication in newsletters and social media. Write articles for the future Language Travel newsletter with traveling tips and other helpful “study abroad” information.
  • Skills: 
    • English fluency 
    • Good interpersonal skills
    • A love of educating
    • Patience 
    • Competence with using social media (Facebook, Instagram, Google, and iMovie) for the media position
  • Training: ILI provides a workshop to community volunteers who tutor current and former students. Tutors must attend two 3-hour training sessions, observe 6 hrs. of ESOL classes, and attend one in-service follow-up session 1-2 months later.

Time Commitment

At least 4 hr/week


How to Get Involved

For tutoring positions, complete the volunteer tutor application. For all other projects, please complete the general volunteer application. The volunteer coordinator, Laura Robinson, will follow up with you once she receives your application.

Contact Information: