2nd Quarter Lao Assistance Center Computer Literacy Program Schedule Announced

Based on current community response the following training dates have been announced for the second 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

Trainings will continue to 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.

Trainings are held at our location at 503 Irving Avenue N. in Minneapolis. Workstations are limited, so please remember to RSVP to hold your slot for classes.

The Lao Assistance Center program was funded last year by Wells Fargo to purchase and upgrade new equipment to help the organization carry out training and education programs to stabilize our community workforce.

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

Phouthakannha Nantharath, director of the program said: "Our community needs to be empowered with current skills in computer literacy if we want to be eligible for the best jobs and opportunities. Thank you to Wells Fargo, who provided us significant support for our Computer Literacy Program. I am happy to see our community is doing well and responding positively to the program."

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