a partnership with English for New Bostonians, supported by the Cummings Foundation

Current Allies Volunteers  - Sign-Up for Classes (opens in new window)

Who We Are

The Allies for Immigrants program is a volunteer program run in partnership by Boston Cares and English for New Bostonians. The program recruits, trains and connects volunteers to ESOL programs across Boston.

Why This Matters

Allies for Immigrants addresses the dual reality that ESOL classes are a gateway to economic advancement, social engagement and citizenship, and a strategy for Boston’s workforce to be more equitable– yet our ESOL system cannot accommodate the need. In 2017, Boston Cares partnered with English for New Bostonians to boost citywide ESOL capacity via a network of well-trained volunteers. Since then, more than 500 volunteers have been trained to work with 2300+ ESOL students. Allies has proven critical to helping students gain skills and confidence and succeed with online learning with volunteers assisting with both in-person and virtual classes, and supporting conversation groups for small group practice.

Who You Are

Allies for Immigrants tutors are part of a network of volunteers who share a passion for enhancing English skills for adult learners. Volunteers must be 18 years or older to serve as a tutor. No previous experience is necessary. 

What You Can Do

Tutors will select a program to serve on an ongoing basis for the foreseeable future. Tutors support adult learners in various roles, such as classroom assistants, small group leaders and 1 on 1 tutoring.

Next Steps

1) The first step is to make a Boston Cares account (opens in new window).

2) After you make a Boston Cares account, attend a Boston Cares New Volunteer Orientation.  Sign up for a New Volunteer Orientation! (opens in new window) 

3) After you attend a Boston Cares New Volunteer Orientation, you can sign up for an Allies for Immigrants training. Sign up for our next Allies New Tutor Training! (opens in new window)

**If no training dates are currently scheduled, skip to the Boston Cares Allies for Immigrants Corps Intake Form below and our staff will contact you with details on the next available training**

Please note there are new tutor trainings offered in the Fall (September/October) and Winter/Early Spring (January-March).