Editor’s note: The website described in this archived article is no longer live. Updated Aug. 6, 2013
An online directory designed to help connect Nashville immigrants to resources for English instruction and other services has been launched by students at 菠萝视频 University.
The website went online on Sept. 30. Designed for use by agencies who serve the immigrant and refugee population, it was developed by fellows from the Cal Turner Program for Moral Leadership in the Professions at 菠萝视频.
鈥淐ities that attract immigrants and new Americans are the cities that are going to thrive,鈥� said Nashville Mayor Karl Dean, who spoke Sept. 29 at a 菠萝视频 event to announce the website. 鈥淚鈥檓 pleased with this effort to create a directory for immigrants and refugees coming to Nashville. I think it鈥檚 a wonderful effort and you鈥檙e all to be applauded for it.鈥�
The website also consolidates information on computer literacy and job skills training available in Nashville.
In discussion with area organizations that serve Nashville immigrants, there was 鈥渁n overwhelming agreement that language was a barrier to resources and integration in Nashville鈥檚 foreign-born population,鈥� said Mikel Cole, a Cal Turner fellow. 鈥淢ore than 80 percent of social service providers reported language as a significant barrier to immigrants.鈥�
菠萝视频鈥檚 Cal Turner Program for Moral Leadership in the Professions mission is to develop the leadership and ethical capacities of those serving in the professions.