Click play to watch an introductory video of Intercambio; Our philosophy, our methods and why we do it.

Testimonials

Intercambio helps us feel accepted and that it doesn't matter what social class we are, nor the level of education we have. They make us feel that we are all equal and important.
- Jose Gonzalez, Student

My life has changed a lot because I can now communicate with my daughter's teacher.
- Maribel Rosales, Student

When my child went to the hopsital they asked me questions in English about him and about medicine, and I answered in English.
- Rocio Alvarado, Student

Intercambio is not just about English, it is about friendships that you can enjoy and learn from. After five and a half years in New York, I have met more friends in three months because of Intercambio.
- Ernesto Pinto-Andrews, Student

If anyone is looking for a place to volunteer that will expand their world, give them a glimpse into the lives of immigrants in our very own community, and return more in satisfaction than will expend in giving, Intercambio is the place.
- Gretchen Winston, Volunteer

In 2008 Intercambio:

• Worked with a student group on campus to link together 100 university students with 120 immigrant workers on campus to break down language and cultural barriers.
• Started its first successful Intercambio affiliate in Denver, which officially received its own nonprofit status from the government in December 2008.
• Taught computer classes to 70 individuals who set up new email accounts and learned how to navigate the internet.
• Held classes at Uni Hill Elementary, Boulder High, Casey Middle School, Angevine Middle, Columbine Elementary, Parenting Place, Whittier Elementary, Casa de la Esperanza, Clinica Campesina, Lafayette Library, Head Start, Longmont Senior Center, Community Montessori, Central Elementary, Safehouse, at the Longmont office, and 150 immigrant homes. In 2008 we enrolled 970 students, 630 of whom completed at least one term and 380 who advanced one level or more in English skills.
• 290 new volunteer teachers were trained in 2008.
• Facilitated resource workshops on knowing your rights, nutrition, emotional health, cross-cultural understanding, and energy conservation to 300 immigrants and, 85% of the attendees evaluated the workshops as "helpful or very helpful."
• Had 1,700 students, volunteers and community members attend Intercambio events, including La Fiesta, park clean ups, a 5K run/walk, camping trips, and events held at the recreation centers to encourage physical fitness.

Based on survey results, the following achievements were reported after taking classes through a representative sample of Intercambio students surveyed in 2008:

• Getting a better job, a promotion or pay increase: 31%
• Better communication with co-workers, boss and clients who speak English: 54%
• Ability to talk to doctors and dentists without an interpreter: 50%
• Feel more confident living in the community: 77%
• Better understanding of U.S. culture: 60%
• Ability to talk to children's teachers and help with children's schoolwork: 41%

Who do we serve? Intercambio students, ages 17-80, came from 43 countries in 2008, including Korea, Vietnam, Israel, Nepal, Sudan, and Bulgaria. Of our student population:

• 91% are from Latin America, while 9% are Asian, African, or European
• The median age is 33
• 65% are female and 35% male
• 43% have lived in the U.S. for four years or less
• Over 95% qualify as "very low income"