RST’s Language Partnership Program

Refugee Services of Texas is a refugee resettlement agency here in Austin. The bulk of their work is resettling newly arrived refugees, finding them first jobs, and providing long term case management to refugees who need it. The following is a new program they have initiated:

RST’s Language Partnership Program

By Amanda Posson, Austin Area Director

RST-Austin’s Employment Team launched their Language Partnership Program on February 22nd, a program designed to improve clients’ English speaking skills and confidence during a job interview. Christian Glakas, Employment Program Supervisor and Gislaine Williams, UT Master’s of Social Work Intern, recruited and trained volunteers from RST’s monthly volunteer orientation. Currently, eleven refugees, from Iraq, Bhutan, Burma and Iran participate in the program with approximately ten trained volunteers.

RST-Austin created the Language Partnership Program to offer refugee clients the opportunity to speak with a native English speaker outside the context of English as Second Language (ESL) classes. Employment Specialists observed intermediate English speakers not performing as well during interviews due to a lack of confidence and comprehension; subsequently these clients faced additional challenges obtaining employment. While all of our clients have access to an outstanding ESL program, clients need more face time, in a comfortable and casual setting to practice and be corrected (politely of course!)

Volunteers arrive to RST every Tuesday to chat with a refugee client for approximately one hour. Volunteers are trained to ask common job interview questions and quiz for appropriate or recommended answers.

Ashley, a dedicated volunteer, commented, “Just staying an hour you can see their progress. I know how much it means to them”. Adhraa a refugee from Iraq commented on why the program is useful, “I want to speak English and work. No English- no work”.

RST-Austin’s Employment Team’s central goal is to facilitate a Language Partnership Program that will build clients’ English speaking confidence and hopefully improve clients’ interview outcomes. Volunteer support and participation is essential in achieving this goal. Please contact Christie.rst@gmail.com to get involved today!