by Abdul Wajid Yaqubi (FIRM staff member and ESL teacher)
Since starting the ESL program at Fresno Immigrant & Refugee Ministries (FIRM), I have observed significant positive changes within the Afghan community. More than 50 students have registered for the program, and we conducted 133 ESL class sessions from April 8, 2025, through June 16, 2026. The classes were organized into 11-week periods, with 25–30 students participating in each period. All 50 registered students attended during different periods. We also conducted a two-week citizenship preparation class, and all participants attended regularly and successfully passed our mock citizenship test.
Many students began with little or no English and started with basic skills such as the alphabet. Over time, I observed substantial improvement in their reading, writing, speaking, vocabulary, and grammar. The program helped students become more confident and better prepared to continue their education at higher levels in adult school. Some students were encouraged to pursue classes at Fresno City College, while eight students obtained employment during their time in the ESL program.
Beyond language skills, the classes have helped students become more independent in their daily lives. Many are now more comfortable navigating their workplaces, communicating with others, and meeting with their family doctors without relying on an interpreter. Overall, the ANSP project has strengthened English skills, confidence, employment opportunities, educational goals, and independence among members of the Fresno Afghan community.
Funding for the ANSP program is ending on September 30th but the Afghan community is still in need of your support. If you are interested in supporting services like these, please consider making a donation today.
