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About Us  Dedicated volunteers and newcomers to our city work together at the International Center. Immigrants, students and others are welcomed into a new culture and given English-language training so important to their success here. For nearly 50 years The Center has been a home away from home to people from over 90 countries. Founded in 1961, The International Center in New York is a unique volunteer-driven community where immigrants, refugees, students and other newcomers to the United States come to practice English and learn about American culture. Among the members of our international community are immigrants, US citizens, refugees, asylees, diplomats, visiting business professionals, international students, temporary visitors and families. With a small full time staff of 9 and more than 1,000 volunteers, we offer the region's largest one-to-one partnership program, a variety of discussion and lecture classes, structured eight to ten week English courses, practical skills training workshops, and cultural programs that help 2,000 members build new lives in the United States. In order to reach more immigrants in the neighborhoods where they live, the International Center has developed collaborative programs with community-based organizations throughout the city. Through these collaborations the Center reaches immigrants who may not otherwise be able to access our services, creating connections between individuals and organizations and building a stronger New York. The International Center is governed by a Board of Directors, and also supported by an International Advisory Council. You can join the International Center community by becoming a member, volunteering your time, or by making a donation to support our programs and services. |