At NeuroRestorative, our mission and values champion inclusion, integrity, respect, and growth. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for all. Our investment in our team members reflects this dedication.
In Maine, we have welcomed a company whose employees face language barriers because English is not their first language. To empower these team members, we are collaborating with Gorham Adult Education in the greater Portland area to provide ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) courses. With over 1,000 individuals on the wait list for language assistance, we are launching a hybrid course that will be offered in-person and virtually, accommodating those who manage multiple jobs, childcare, or school responsibilities .Leading this program is Jen Jello, State Director for Maine.
“Our mission extends to strengthening our local community by tackling workforce gaps and enhancing communication in our residential homes. By joining the Workforce Compact through the Harold Alfond Center for the Advancement of Maine’s Workforce, we unite with businesses, associations, non-profits, and municipalities dedicated to overcoming workforce challenges,” said Jen.
Membership is free, and this initiative aims to strengthen Maine’s workforce by 2030, providing grants to support frontline workers, college scholarships, and educational advancement opportunities. This transformative ESOL course will span two trimesters, approximately six months in duration, meeting twice a week. People in the program will engage in practical speaking, reading, and writing within diverse real-world scenarios, such as simulated doctor calls, home and community care settings, and documentation writing. The first semester will kick off in August 2025.
Not only do we understand the significance of bridging language and cultural barriers, which will positively benefit our programs, but we also ensure that we honor diverse food traditions and celebrate the rich cultures of our team members to make sure those we serve and our staff feel welcome, respected, and celebrated. “We are in the business of accommodation, and the changing
workforce is challenging us to come up with creative ways to meet needs without compromising quality. The ESOL initiative attends to both,” said Jen.
We celebrate Jen’s leadership in creating an inclusive environment where all partners feel valued and supported. By encouraging and investing in English language development, you’re not only helping team members grow, but also strengthening their ability to provide excellent care and customer service to the people we are so honored to serve.
