The Center

The team at The Center is amazing. This year we have welcomed over 400 refugees and served 100's more through our programs and services. More than 1/2 of our staff members are former refugees or immigrants who have chosen to continue serving their communities. Support this amazing group of people in their service to others. Donate to #thecenterutica tomorrow (September 20th) during #MohawkValleyGives https://lnkd.in/d9XCRYMw

"Taking the interpreting class and getting my certificate for Bringing the Gap was a great experience. Led by Qinji Allen, the course offers a mix of practical exercise, especially in consecutive and simultaneous interpreting. I learned how to accurately convey the meaning while maintaining the tone of the intensity of the speaker. I feel more confident in my interpreting skills now especially when it comes to handling real time pressure . The class gave me a deeper understanding of cultural nuances and the importance of ongoing practice. Overall, I'm excited to continue developing the skills and see where they can take me. - Eliana Martinez"

"First of all, the interpreting skills helped me to understand how to facilitate communication between people who speak different languages, and enable clear and accurate exchange of information among patients and providers. Thus, medical parts helped me to understand how to develop effective communication, ensuring that both patients and providers understand each other, promoting a safe place in healthcare's field. On top of that, the presenter is an actual certified medical and court interpreter so it is more comfortable and convenient for me to relate, exchange, and share information (experiences) in the interpreter working field. Lastly, all of those topics I have learned in BTG class will definitely help me to become a more productive, confident, and effective individual in interpretation services. This small important step will open the door to many opportunities so I believe I can go far to reach another big step of my goal in this specific career if I put more effort (time & energy) to it. - Daniel Leon"

"The?instructor is enthusiastic and attentive. The participants are active and friendly. The study schedule is clear and specific. The interaction between the instructor and participants help to consolidate knowledge and communication and interpretation skills. Thanks a lot." - Huy Kien

"I came to the US on August 21, 2024 as a Somali refugee. I am happy to be able to attend the training. The BTG training program was great and beneficial. I learned a lot from Miss Qinji Allen. Thank you." - Asha Ali

"My name is Nyamuoch Nguoth, I am a south Sudanese and I came to America in 2023 as a refugee. Having lived in 4 refugee camps in 2 different countries I learned how to speak and write in 3 languages (English, Kiswahili, and Nuer) I never expected knowing these languages would lead me down to the path of being an Interpreter and being able to complete and pass the Bridging the Gap training. This experience has been truly transformative, equipping me with the essential skills and knowledge to grow as a professional interpreter. Through this program, I gained a deeper understanding of medical terminology, ethical principles, and the best practices for facilitating accurate and culturally appropriate communication between providers and patients. I also honed my ability to navigate complex situations with professionalism and confidence, ensuring that language is never a barrier to quality care. And I now have a new found passion for interpreting. Beyond the technical skills, this program has reinforced the importance of community. I’m grateful for this learning experience and excited to apply my skills in real-world settings."

We are excited to announce that after a 1-week intensive training, six interpreters have passed the Bridging the Gap Medical Interpreter exam and become certified medical interpreters. A round of applause for Nyamuoch Nguoth - she got 100% on the exam. Congratulations to all of you. The six newly certified interpreters are: Asha Ali (Somali & Swahili) Huy Kien (Vietnamese) Daniel Leon (Karen & Thai) Eliana Martinez (Spanish) Nyamuoch Nguoth (Swahili & Nuer) Jennifer Tremblay (Spanish)

Despite our current challenges, The Center received good news this week, as a grant recipient of the Mohawk Valley Empowers Program. The grant will support a micro-credentialing program at The Center as a bridge to MVCC's Fast-Track Program. "So, it's breaking a program that might say take two semesters overall and breaking it down to six-week or eight-week components. And, so, you get these micro-certificates; they allow you to get your foot in the door with somebody or get a promotion," The Center's Executive Director Shelly Callahan said." https://lnkd.in/enxMGX88 #newamericans #jobready #refugeswelcome

Executive Director Shelly Callahan spoke with the local news station, @wktv, about the impact of the President's Executive Orders, raising awareness and advocating for the communities we serve. https://lnkd.in/ekpzbwmj #RefugeesWelcome

“The Executive Order conflates the terms ‘refugee’ and ‘migrant’ — they are not the same. For Utica in particular, refugees have come over the last 40+ years. They have been an integral part of the revitalization and economic growth of Utica and the Mohawk Valley.” — Shelly Callahan, executive director of The Center. https://lnkd.in/eRMRFsmN #refugeeswelcome