Richmond, Va. (CapitalWirePR) Oct. 20, 2008 — The Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, that works to proactively provide its members with business opportunities and resources, has announced the launch of its on-line English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. Through the program, some 50 participants will have access to this free on-line English training course offered at the Chamber’s offices.
“The economy depends on having a ready workforce,” says Michel Zajur, President and CEO, Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “We are meeting the needs of our members by giving them the tools required for them to be marketable, and by reducing the number of jobs that employers can’t fill because of language barriers.”
Depending on their level of English, participants who take the online ESL training course will be able to improve their vocabulary skills, obtain a basic foundation of speaking and understanding English, and increase their self-confidence in 3 months. AT&T contributed $10,000 to sponsor the participants of this new pilot program.
“I applaud the VA Hispanic Chamber for its leadership in addressing all of the skills -- including language -- that are needed for the Hispanic workforce to succeed.” said Senator John C. Watkins (R-10). “And I applaud AT&T for being a good corporate citizen and funding such an important program.” Senator Watkins joined the VA Hispanic Chamber, AT&T and class participants at the October 15 launch announcement.
The Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Spanish Academy & Cultural Institute, a company that specializes in industry specific Spanish language and cultural programs to roll out this initiative. The Institute matched AT&T’s contribution to cover the instructional training, manuals and technical support. "This program is a natural fit with our mission of helping companies and organizations build bridges to the Hispanic community. We are excited to support this opportunity for the Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and will be looking for opportunities to expand this program to reach a larger audience," said Matthew Markee, President of Casa Mosaic, the distribution company for the Spanish Academy and Cultural Institute's programs.
“People need to be prepared to effectively compete in today's workforce,” said J. Michael Schweder, President, AT&T Mid-Atlantic Region. “We are proud to support a program that uses online technology to give users the language education they’ll need to increase their opportunities of employment.”
AT&T and the AT&T Foundation support efforts that enrich and strengthen diverse communities nationwide, particularly initiatives with an emphasis on education and technology and those that benefit underserved populations.
About the Spanish Academy & Cultural Institute
Spanish Academy & Cultural Institute provides a vital educational link for non-Hispanics wishing to increase their knowledge of the Hispanic culture and learning to speak Spanish and for Hispanics desiring to learn English. Utilizing innovative coursework, practical and industry specific language application and proven teaching methods, the Spanish Academy and Cultural Institute offers a unique and enjoyable learning environment for cultural diversity training and any Spanish or English speaking need. http://www.spanishwithin.com
About the Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
The Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was founded in May 2000 as the first statewide organization to empower Hispanics in the Virginia business community by building economic, social, and cultural bridges between Virginia and its growing Hispanic community. Since its inception, the Chamber has worked to foster an environment that is conducive to business growth and benefits people with business acumen, both Hispanic and non-Hispanic, through cultural, social, and business activities. http://www.vahcc.com
About Philanthropy at AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is committed to advancing education, strengthening communities and improving lives. Through its philanthropic initiatives and partnerships, AT&T supports projects that create learning opportunities; promote academic and economic achievement; and address community needs. In 2007, AT&T contributed more than $164 million through corporate-, employee- and AT&T Foundation-giving programs. AT&T and the AT&T Foundation, the corporate philanthropy organization of AT&T, combine more than $1.9 billion of historic charitable commitment to communities across the country.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates, AT&T operating companies, are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. Among their offerings are the world’s most advanced IP-based business communications services and the nation’s leading wireless, high speed Internet access and voice services. In domestic markets, AT&T is known for the directory publishing and advertising sales leadership of its Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations, and the AT&T brand is licensed to innovators in such fields as communications equipment. As part of its three-screen integration strategy, AT&T is expanding its TV entertainment offerings. In 2008, AT&T again ranked No. 1 on Fortune magazine’s World’s Most Admired Telecommunications Company list and No. 1 on America’s Most Admired Telecommunications Company list. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com.
