Program areas at Multicultural Institute
Life Skills/Day Laborer and Domestic Worker Program: This program addresses the issue of economic inequity by offering access to skills and competencies that direct workers on pathways to economic security. MI offers economically disadvantaged adults workforce development opportunities, job placement assistance, and vocational skill development while advocating for fairwage paying jobs. Each year, over 1,500 different individuals are involved in this program and participate in one or more of the following activities: employment training, workforce related workshops, job placement, housing, and vocational/skill development opportunities. Immigration and Health Support: MI offers various legal and immigration workshops, community events, and courses. MI's Naturalization Course prepares green card holders who qualify to apply for citizenship by offering them exam preparation assistance, interview practice and application assistance. In addition, MI offers comprehensive health workshops, screenings, and direct services throughout the year. Housing: The current housing crisis has negatively impacted the lives of day laborers in multiple ways. To address this housing issue, MI offers housing to unsheltered day workers since December 1, 2011. This community living offers them a safe and dignified space and allows them to save money. GED Preparation Program: MIs General Educational Development (GED) Preparation course helps adults meet employers hiring criteria, achieve self-sufficiency, and contribute to their communitys growth. This program empowers an average of 80 economically disadvantaged adults throughout the year.
Mentoring for Academic Success (MAS) Program: Since 1999, the MAS program assists students in reaching academic proficiency and in cultivating an early interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM). The program serves students primarily from West Berkeley and Richmond. Approximately 100 youth benefit from this after-school program and the Youth Writing Festival (YWF) during the summer.