Potencia Adult English Language Learning Program

Program Overview

Potencia trains civic-minded college students as tutors to lead affordable and flexible individual and small-group English language classes. We are committed to reimagining language learning for adults living in the U.S. with limited English skills so they are equipped to operate more effectively in their daily lives.

Our unique model began as a class project to empower immigrants and refugees in the community. Although the English language is a key to survival and employment, we were struck by how many people lived without a basic means of communication. Since launching the pilot class in 2019 with three tutors and four learners, Potencia has been broadening its community impact.

Cost Info

Student and Volunteer Success Stories

"I've improved my English at least 70% since joining this program." -- Anderson, learner

"I have all the customized classes, everything to give exactly what I need, and I told tutors my goals.
My life has totally changed in the last two years. I have achieved pretty much everything I wished." -- Marllon, learner

"(Potencia) is an empowering and motivational experience that I will always remember." -- Aidan Welsh, tutor alum, Tufts University

"After the first few weeks of lessons, I remember Marta was able to tell me—albeit in simple terms—about her Brazilian identity, and she even gave me some local restaurant recommendations for her favorite Brazilian cuisine! She was excited to talk to me using what she had learned, and as a tutor, there is nothing more meaningful than that." -- Jake Lattanzi, tutor alum and chapter leader, Tufts University

"Talking with my student about his experiences as a Latino in America and also his experiences from his native country have opened up my worldview on a culture different from mine." -- Anonymous, tutor, Boston University