Educator, Entrepreneur, and Immigrant Advocate Paves the Way for Refugees.
Today we are reposting this News story about our Founder:
New York City, October 5 , 2020 - In a city renowned for its diversity and opportunity, Caroline McKinnon has been making waves in the realm of immigrant education and community support. An educator, entrepreneur, and proud immigrant herself, McKinnon's journey has been marked by a deep commitment to helping others thrive in their new country. Her groundbreaking initiative, Felt Education, is challenging the traditional barriers to ESL (English as a Second Language) Adult education and making a profound impact on the lives of survivors of torture, war, and trafficking.
Caroline McKinnon's path to founding Felt NYC is a testament to her unwavering dedication to social change. With a career spanning activism, education, and work with refugees, McKinnon possesses a unique blend of skills and experiences that set her apart in the world of immigrant support. Her journey began as an immigrant herself, and it was one of warmth and welcome that she now seeks to replicate for others.
Describing her mission, McKinnon passionately states, "My own immigrant journey was one of welcoming, so I feel it is my duty to use my privilege to elevate others." This ethos forms the bedrock of Felt Education's mission, which revolves around creating a supportive ecosystem for newcomers to any location around the globe.
One of the distinguishing features of Felt Education is its ability to adapt and respond to the specific needs of the immigrant community it serves. Unlike traditional ESL programs, which often take a one-size-fits-all approach, Felt Education tailors its curriculum and services to meet the unique challenges faced by survivors of trauma and displacement.
Caroline McKinnon's initiative has created a series of safe spaces that provide not only language instruction but also critical emotional support, mental health resources, and community building. By removing the traditional barriers to education, such as language proficiency prerequisites or prohibitive costs and lack of affordable childcare, Felt Education ensures that everyone has an opportunity to thrive in their new home.
But Felt Education's impact doesn't stop at the classroom door. Caroline firmly believes that education is a powerful vehicle for social change and that anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, can benefit from funding education for others. She champions the idea that donations have the power to change lives, and her organization has garnered support from individuals and businesses alike who share her vision for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Caroline McKinnon's work with Felt Education serves as a shining example of the positive impact that immigrants can have on their communities when given the tools and opportunities to succeed. Her dedication to disrupting the norms of immigrant education and her commitment to providing safe and nurturing spaces for survivors of adversity demonstrate the transformative power of education and community support.
As Caroline continues to empower refugees and immigrants through Felt Education, she is not only changing lives but also shaping a more welcoming and inclusive future for her community. Her story is a reminder that, in the tapestry of a diverse society, every thread counts, and every contribution matters.