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ESOL program for immigrants Boston Transforming Lives Through Language: NOAH's ESOL Program in East Boston Opening Doors: How NOAH's ESOL Program is Empowering East Boston's Immigrant Community
The NOAH Community Development Corporation in East Boston offers a powerful ESOL program for immigrants in Boston, focusing on real-life English skills for adult learners. Established in 2005, the program has grown from a volunteer-led initiative to a structured, multi-level educational service under the leadership of Manlio Mendez. With three learning levels and year-round cycles, the program prioritizes accessible, practical education for immigrant residents. Through compelling stories from students like Maria and Erika, the program demonstrates how language skills can empower lives, improve job prospects, and build community connections.
For nearly two decades, NOAH has been a bridge for hundreds of immigrant residents in East Boston looking to improve their English, access better opportunities, and build deeper connections within their community. What began in 2005 as a small volunteer-led conversation group has blossomed into a comprehensive educational program that transforms lives—one word at a time.
Under the leadership of Manlio Mendez, who serves as both program coordinator and instructor, NOAH's ESOL program now offers structured learning across multiple proficiency levels:
Level 1: Foundations of English with Manlio Mendez and Sonia Sanchez
Level 2: Intermediate Communication with John Abbott
Level 3: Advanced Skills with Jim Dougherty
Our teachers go beyond teaching grammar or vocabulary—they build confidence, encourage civic participation, and develop practical language skills that students can apply immediately in their daily lives.
Classes meet twice weekly from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM, making education accessible for working adults. Our program operates in three distinct cycles throughout the year:
Fall Cycle: September to December
Winter Cycle: January to April
Spring Cycle: April to June
Each cycle is a complete unit of learning, and students can join at the beginning of any cycle when space is available. Due to high demand, spots fill quickly. If students need to withdraw at the beginning of a cycle due to work schedules or personal circumstances, we immediately contact people on our waiting list to fill those spots, ensuring no opportunity for learning is wasted.
Current Status: The Spring cycle (April to June) is about to begin, so we are not currently accepting new students. Registration for our Fall cycle will open in July through our online application system.
What truly distinguishes NOAH's ESOL program is our unwavering focus on practical, real-life communication. Our curriculum is designed around everyday scenarios that immigrants face, from workplace conversations to healthcare appointments.
"Students come eager to learn. They realize it's not easy, but they keep going because they know it's worth it," explains Manlio Mendez. "When they tell me about using their English at work for the first time, or speaking to their child's teacher without a translator—those moments are what drive our program."
Maria's Journey
"When I first came to East Boston from El Salvador three years ago, I could barely introduce myself in English," says Maria, a Level 3 student. "I was afraid to speak to my children's teachers or go to doctor's appointments alone. After joining NOAH's ESOL program last year, everything changed. Now I can confidently talk with my supervisor at work, help my kids with homework, and even made friends with English-speaking neighbors. The teachers here don't just teach language—they build community and give us courage."
Erika's Path to Empowerment
Born in Guatemala, Erika Roxanna Aguirre came to the United States at age 21 with limited education and a dream that had been denied in her home country.
"Since childhood I always dreamed of going to school, but my dad did not agree because I am a woman," Erika shares. "When I arrived in 2008, I realized there are many opportunities here to fulfill that dream."
Despite the challenges of being a mother of three while learning a new language, Erika found her way to NOAH's ESOL program. Her persistence paid off—not only improving her English but also enabling her to help fellow classmates. Today, she's an active member of the Parents' Council at East Boston Ecumenical Community Center and recently participated in environmental workshops.
"Thanks to the ESOL program at NOAH, I was able to study at Bunker Hill Community College to get my high school diploma," Erika proudly notes. "When I'm finished, I hope to continue studying to become a medical assistant."
Want to stay informed? Follow NOAH on social media or sign up for our community newsletter to receive notifications when registration opens for our Fall cycle in July.
Language learning at NOAH is about more than communication—it's about access, confidence, and opportunity. Our ESOL program helps open doors by offering a safe, supportive, and practical learning environment deeply rooted in community experience.
Get Involved: Whether you're a potential student, volunteer, or community advocate, your support helps grow this mission and transform lives—one conversation at a time.
1: Who can join NOAH’s ESOL program in Boston?
A: The program is open to adult immigrants living in or near East Boston who want to improve their English skills.
2: How many levels are available in the ESOL program?
A: There are three levels: Level 1 (Foundations), Level 2 (Intermediate), and Level 3 (Advanced).
3: When can I enroll in the ESOL program?
A: Enrollment opens at the start of three cycles each year. Registration for the Fall cycle begins in July.
4: Is the ESOL program free or paid?
A: The program is designed to be accessible and affordable, often supported through community funding or grants.
5: What makes NOAH’s ESOL program unique?
A: It focuses on practical English skills for real-world situations and fosters a supportive, empowering community.