Lao Assistance Center Computer Literacy Classes Now Available

Training dates are now being announced for the first quarter of the Lao Assistance Center Computer Literacy Program. Phouthakannha Nantharath is the lead director of the Computer Literacy Program. To get involved, please call the Lao Assistance Center at: (612) 374-4967 or sunny@laocenter.org

The Lao Assistance Center program was recently funded by Wells Fargo to purchase and upgrade new equipment to help the organization carry out training and education programs to stabilize our community workforce. The computer lab and upgrades are almost complete and we are ready to begin trainings in December at our location at 503 Irving Avenue N. in Minneapolis.

Trainings will initially be offered on the following schedule based on demand:

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays:
Basic Skills Training. 9AM, 1PM and 4PM.

Tuesdays and Thursdays:
Intermediate Skills Training.  9AM, 1PM and 4PM.

We will be working over the course of the year to expand our online English language classes, job training and computer literacy training to unemployed or underemployed Lao adults. This includes an English skills (comprehension and reading) computer software program and continuing our job search training.

We are implementing a four-pronged strategy that will significantly enhance access to computer literacy programs, English skills program and employment skills and job searching skills that are culturally specific to the Lao community. 

Our four key prongs are:

1. Develop a formal job readiness training curriculum that is culturally and linguistically appropriate. 

2. Develop relationship with companies. High growth industry sectors are Healthcare, Finance/Insurance, Professional/Technical, Transportation and High-Tech Manufacturing. 

3. Increase partnerships with organizations providing English language skills to Lao elders with limited English proficiency. 

4. Leverage volunteers, including 2nd and 3rd generation Lao youth, to assist elders

Sunny Chanthanouvong, Executive Director of the Lao Assistance Center said: "This program would not have been possible without support from Wells Fargo, who provided us significant support in preparing our Computer Literacy Program. I am happy to see our staff has done so well to get ready so fast."

If you would like to get involved with the Lao Assistance Center as a sponsor or employer, please contact sunny@laocenter.org.