English as a Second Language (ESL) Classes

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Case Management has become our most important program. Many of the local Rohingya families lost their source of income, as wage earners have become unemployed.

Academic Support was one of the first programs started at RCC. It is supported by volunteers from local universities who come to support students.

Passing the citizenship test is extremely difficult as one has to read, write, and speak English. RCC has designed the curriculum to best meet these needs.

Soccer is a popular pastime in the Rohingya community and is a great way to tie the youth to RCC. Soccer teaches them how to function as a team, become leaders, and learn the benefits of cooperation, hard work, and practice.

The Rohingya are a religious and Ethnic minority. Religion ties the Rohingya community to their culture and their roots. It allows them to be connected to their heritage as they navigate the challenges of settling into a new country.

The Rohingya Youth Club was formed to maintain cultural identity and to develop a sense of community through service. It connects the youth to the elderly and needy, and allows them to understand the needs and challenges of the community.

Most of the Rohingya community is pre-literate because they were denied an education in Burma. It is essential that our ESL classes be designed for pre-literate learners. Attending class for the first time in their lives is a huge undertaking for our adult learners.

During the COVID-19 lockdown RCC made the difficult decision to keep our doors open. Our staff recognized that given the language and education barriers, help via phone was not feasible.