by Donna Cole
Do you know about International Neighbors, a local group closely connected to the Elaine Bacon Literacy Program (EBLP)? Many international adults and other community members enjoy and benefit from both organizations.
For more than 50 years, these two all-volunteer groups have served newcomers to our area as well as long-time residents. EBLP focuses on helping people from many countries improve their English communication skills. Services offered include free classes, individual tutoring, and informal conversation partners. Many lasting friendships can be traced back to these helpful and supportive activities.
International Neighbors also offers a friendly welcome and a regular program of enjoyable
gatherings. These meetings help adults from many countries get to know neighbors from the local area and beyond. During the school year, International Neighbors meets at 10:00 am Thursdays at the Portage Lake United Church, across from MTU’s campus. All are welcome to attend as the group learns about different cultures and cuisines, experiences outdoor activities, and much more.
Programs in Spring 2023, for example, feature: Ukrainian, Japanese, and Mexican cooking; travel highlights from Thailand and other destinations; a skiing or snowshoeing outing;
and introductions to U.P. flowers and insect life. Summer activities are planned, too, including berry picking, hiking, and a picnic.
Please help spread the word about International Neighbors as well as EBLP! We hope you can participate in one or both special community groups and encourage others to get to know us, too.
Contact Donna Cole (donnafcole@gmail.com) to learn more about International Neighbors.
Elaine Bacon Literacy Program 