Saturday class is a term that was adopted over the years as a result of IHP programs being delivered on Saturday. Now, Saturday classes have become a broad synonym of how IHP programs are delivered and it is an integral part of In Her Presence culture.
In Her Presence started in 2015 with Yoga classes. During these Yoga classes, participants learned how to use yoga techniques to manage stress, achieve wellness, and build confidence. The sessions continued until June 2016, where English literacy programs where introduced to address the Yoga participants Language barrier problem. Since that day, In Her Presence has been developing and introducing new programs to support immigrant women’s language independence and cultural/economic integration.
English Conversational classes
English Conversational classes are organized every Saturday from 10:00-12:30 at the University of Southern Maine (USM) from Mid-September to Mid-June, following the university calendar. (insert description from handout).
As women “Find Their Voice”, the curriculum shifts from building on basic language conversation skills to understanding complex community and career integration skills. We identify three levels:
- Beginner Level: is the entry-level for new mainers. We focus on basic and common conversations to help them navigate daily life conversations.
- Intermediate and Advanced Level I: Designed to help those who have been exposed to basic English, solidify, and master the English language for professional self-sufficiency.
- Advanced Level II: At this level, IHP participants are primarily focused on “Know Yourself “ and “Building Your Dream”. Women will be immersed in the contextual language of the workplace, orientation to performance expectations, and potential cultural differences, the practice of interview techniques, and resume development.
Senior Program
Senior Program meets on Saturday from 10:00-12:30 at USM from Mid-September to Mid-June, following the university calendar. The major focus of “Find Your Voice” for our Seniors is to reduce their isolation and increase their socialization and community integration.
More Programs
- Special 1-hour Workshops are presented periodically on Saturdays to inform all IHP participants about “Heal Your Body” related topics.
- “Connect to Your Community”: IHP encourages the participant to take leadership positions in their community and also preserve their native culture.
- Community Cooking Classes: A cultural affirmation and integration through cooking sessions where recipes from across the globe are shared.
- Youth Racial Justice and Social Equity: Youth leadership builds collective capacity and offer workshops topics related to racial justice and equity.
