Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional women’s educator organization, had a presentation from Jorge Islas Martinez at their October meeting.  Jorge together with Sandra Heyer founded The Whitewater Community ESL (English as a Second Language) Program 25 years ago and were recently honored at a gala with 300 people in attendance.  The ESL program began with lessons being held once a week outside at Starin Park. Today, it has grown to four different levels of instruction taught five days a week. Jorge currently teaches the first level and has 67 students in his class. In addition to learning English, students are taught practical skills such as shopping at local stores, opening a bank account, scheduling medical and dental appointments etc. and are helped in securing resources that will allow them to better integrate into the community. Jorge would like to expand the program to 5 or 6 levels of instruction and offer computer/technology classes as well as citizenship classes. Funding comes from the Whitewater Unified School District, the United Way, the Mexican Consulate and local churches. Since the need for ESL classes is HUGE, they are looking for more ways to raise funds.  Jorge also discussed the impact that negative comments have on immigrants.

In addition to this program, Jorge is a supporting director for the Community Space and Voces de la Frontera, member of the Board of Directors for the Waunakee County Hispanic Coalition, Founder of Immigration Support Coalition of Whitewater and many other organizations. He is also writing a book titled “Know Me First” that he is hoping to publish soon. Jorge is one of the hardest working people in Whitewater and very passionate about making the lives of ESL families better. He is truly an outstanding member of the Whitewater community who is passionate about his work and a blessing to know.

Editor’s note: This article was submitted by Lori Heidenreich.