Supports Asian American and Asian immigrant communities in Ohio. They focus on East, Southeast, South Asian and Pacific Islander communities but assist individuals regardless of ethnic or racial background. Healthy Asian Youth (HAY) provides after-school and summer programming for low-income families. They offer free or low-cost classes for adults for ESL, Citizenship, and cultural arts. They also offer a Family Support Program for victims of crime, Senior citizen outreach, and interpreting and translation services. The Asian Health Initiative (AHI) provides free, culturally and linguistically appropriate services and health screenings for those living under 250% of the Federal Poverty Level.
4700 Reed Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 220-4023
aacsohio.org
Provides case management services, health and wellness services, education programs (like ESOL, tutoring and summer camps), language and culture programs, sport clubs, and more for Bhutanese people living in Columbus.
1925 East Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 396-8965
bccoh.org
Career Technical Schools offer training programs that can prepare students for the workforce or college degree programs. Career-Technical Education (CTE) is available at every public school in the state of Ohio free of tuition. High school students should check with their home school district to see what CTE school they are eligible to attend, and for transportation options. Students may attend CTE schools for half-day or full-day programs to continue extracurriculars or classes at their home school. Program pathways typically include healthcare careers such as nursing, information technology, automotive services, welding, cosmetology, graphic design, and others. Check with each CTE school to see what programs they offer. Many CTEs offer adult education programs such as free diploma and GED programs, career certificates, and personal enrichment classes.
List of Ohio Career Technical Centers: highered.ohio.gov/about/ohios-campuses/career-technical-education/career-technical-education-ohio-technical-centers
Columbus City Schools Career-Technical Education: Serves high school juniors and seniors in the Columbus City Schools district. Adult & Community Education offers programs for health occupations, skilled trades, computer applications, high school equivalency, and free ESL/ESOL classes.
Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools: Offers programs for high school juniors and seniors in Franklin, Fairfield, and Pickaway counties. Programs for adults include GED, ESL/ESOL, STNA, HVAC, and welding. Employability Prep is a personalized, transitional program for Franklin County students ages 16-21 with learning differences to receive hands-on training at community job sites. They offer free summer day camps for Grades 6-8 to experience hands-on learning.
4300 Amalgamated Place, Groveport, Ohio 43125
High School: (614) 836-4530
Adult Workforce: (614) 836-4541
Summer Camp: (614) 836-4530
eastlandfairfield.com
Delaware Area Career Center (DACC): Offers a variety of career-readiness opportunities for middle school and high school students on their campus and through satellite programs. They offer summer day camps for rising 7-9th grade students in Big Walnut, Buckeye Valley, Delaware City, Olentangy, Worthington, and Westerville school districts. Adult Education includes free adult diploma, GED, ESL/ESOL, and personal enrichment classes.
4565 Columbus Pike, Delaware, Ohio 43015
(740) 548-0708
delawareareacc.org
South-Western City Schools Career Tech: For junior and senior high school students in South-Western City School District. They also offer free adult workforce development courses in the evenings for HVAC, Certified Nursing Assistance (CNA), auto maintenance, and more.
4750 Big Run South Road, Grove City, Ohio 43123
(614) 801-3400
swcsdcareertech.com
Tolles Career & Technical Center: Serves Dublin, Fairbanks, Jonathan Alder, Hilliard, London, Madison-Plains, and Jefferson school districts. Adult educational opportunities include free ESL, GED, STNA EMT, personal enrichment classes, and more.
7877 U.S. Highway 42 South, Plain City, Ohio 43064
(614) 873-4666
tollestech.com
A faith-based agency serving families and seniors in central and southern Ohio. Provides case management, food, and emergency assistance. They offer supportive services and community-impact opportunities for low-income seniors. The Our Lady of Guadalupe Center serves the Latino/Hispanic community on the West side of Columbus with a food pantry, ESL classes, legal and immigration consultations and referrals, and comprehensive case management.
Visit your local library to get access to free books, music, movies, documentaries, games, and more. Many libraries offer free community events, group reading times for children, homework help, job and business help, and more. Librarians can often help you get connected to local resources in your community, even if they are not offered directly by the library. Contact your local library for details.
Ohio
Franklin County
Delaware County
Fairfield County
Hocking County
Licking County
Madison County
Morrow County
Perry County
Pickaway County
Union County
Offers free GED prep and ESL/ESOL classes for adults, basic skills literacy classes for adults, and vocational training programs (STNA, LPN, HVACR) at sites throughout Franklin County. Call or complete the interest form on the website to get started.
2323 Lexington Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43211
Aspire (GED & ESOL): (380) 997-7633
School of Practical Nursing: (380) 997-7617
Nurse Aide/STNA: (380) 997-3046
HVACR: (380) 997-7617
Online Courses: (380) 997-7637
ccsoh.us/Page/334
Offers a variety of free education programs for youth and adults. Adult classes include literacy (financial, workplace and technology literacy), citizenship classes, GED test preparation, and language (ESL/ESOL, Spanish, ASL).They also provide career coaching, supportive services for life transitions or re-entry to the community, supportive services for immigrants and New Americans, and help with utilities. Youth programs include MARVEL*US after school program for TANF-eligible youth ages 5-13, AMP for ages 16-18, and Pathways to Promise for youth ages 13-15 at risk of entering the juvenile justice system.
(614) 282-7661
clcworks.org
CML is an award-winning library and amazing resource in the community. With 23 locations throughout Franklin County, they provide a lot more than just books, including lots of free online resources, story times for kids, and community events. Programs include:
(614) 645-2275
All Library Locations: columbuslibrary.org/library-locations
Upcoming Events: events.columbuslibrary.org/events?
Website: columbuslibrary.org
Professional and educational learning center for adults ages 18+. Students are not charged for tutoring services, but those who are financially able are asked to purchase basic texts and materials. Courses include English as a Second Language (ESL/ESOL); GED high school equivalency in English or Spanish; Adult Basic Education for those looking to improve reading, writing, and math skills; and Citizenship Test Preparation.
672 South Third Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206
(614) 444-7330
domlearningcenter.org
Helps immigrants and refugees from all countries establish roots and gain self-sufficiency in Central Ohio. They offer job training, resettlement support, mentoring, English language classes (ESL), case management for victims of domestic violence and more. Youth programs include after school tutoring, Pathways 2 Success paid work training program for ages 16-18, wraparound coaching and support services for ages 14-18, scholarship opportunities, and summer camp.
4300 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43123
(614) 252-5362
ethiotss.org
Faith-based organization supporting families impacted by poverty and celebrating cultural diversity. They offer free youth and adult programming, including a three generation family English-learning/ESL program for all ages. Youth programs include the Excelerate young entrepreneur program for children K-8, and a free summer lunch camp. Contact the organization for registration details. They also accept youth and adult volunteers.
Upper Arlington Lutheran Church (UALC) at Mill Run
3500 Mill Run Drive, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
(614) 586-7939
wearefesta.org
This website provides a free database to search for adult education classes by zip code. Use the website to find free programs near you, GED and High School Equivalency prep materials and practice tests, literacy resources, and English language learning resources.
(877) 389-6874
finishyourdiploma.org
Offers a variety of free work readiness programs. Adult programs include GED preparation, ESL/ESOL, Career Bridges customer service training, and technology classes. Youth programs include after school homework help, mentoring, and career exploration for grades 9-12. Blue Bow Tie offers professional catering services while providing job opportunities to individuals with barriers to employment. Camp Mary Orton offers summer camp experiences for youth ages 6-14, team building retreats, and venue spaces with proceeds supporting Godman Guild programs.
P.O. Box 8100 Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 294-5476
godmanguild.org
Connects the Haitian community with services and resources. They offer mentorship programs, community events, computer literacy classes, free legal consultation, citizenship classes, healthcare assistance, employment assistance, emergency assistance and immigration services.
2020 Brice Road, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068
(614) 600-5530
www.haconet.com
Healthy New Albany Food Pantry serves families and individuals living in the New Albany Plain Local School (NAPLS) District or in the 43054 zip code. They offer emergency help for those in immediate need of food. Find open pantry hours on their website or call to schedule an appointment. They also have an English conversation program for Spanish-speakers, and can connect immigrant community members to resources for ESL, healthcare, and more.
150 Main Street, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(614) 413-7907 or (614) 685-6344
newalbanyfoodpantry.org
Free program at University Baptist Church for women to build community and improve conversational English. Refreshments and childcare for preschool-aged children are provided. Advanced ESL/ESOL groups are also available.
50 West Lane Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 294-6333
ubccolumbus.org/inch
This online learning center offers Swahili language instruction, ESL, intercultural training, youth programming, and K-12 tutoring. Kiswahili classes are available for ages 6-17 or ages 18+ at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Call for details.
(717) 557-6743 or (780) 803-6033
kilece.com/colombus-ohio-usa-kiswahili-learning-centre
Faith-based organization providing a wide range of services across Ohio. Services include Faith Mission homeless shelter, food, health care, affordable senior living and domestic violence help. Visit the website for detailed program information and for programs in Fairfield County. The LSS 211 Information and Referral network can connect you to food pantries and other social services across Franklin County and Ohio.
A social service agency that supports the Muslim community in Central Ohio by offering assistance, referrals, and material support. They help with basic needs like shelter, utilities, and food for Muslim families in need. They also offer mediation and conflict resolution services, interpretation and paperwork assistance, resettlement support, ESL classes, job skills training, and Janazah (Muslim funeral) services. They host seasonal giving programs for school supplies, and Eid and Ramadan meals.
Location: 4900 Reed Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 14023 Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 470-2848
facebook.com/mfsofohio
This site has resources for educators to identify and best serve PreK-12 students learning English. Find State guidelines for communicating with families, creating inclusive learning environments, supporting international/foreign exchange students, and more.
(614) 446-4109
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Student-Supports/English-Learners
Agency providing culturally and linguistically-appropriate services for Latino/Hispanic communities throughout Ohio. Free services include homework help and after school programs, summer camps, financial education, translation and interpretation services, ESL and citizenship classes. The Soy Latina program serves victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, and includes crisis intervention, safety planning, medical and legal advocacy, and a Community Empowerment Group.
After School Program: 3556 Sullivant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 641-6739
Office: 1535 Bethel Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 746-1032
Soy Latina Program: (614) 641-6739
ohiohispaniccoalition.org
instagram.com/ohco_columbus
Office connecting diverse Latino communities across the State of Ohio. Use the website to find a list of state-wide resources, including interpreters, attorneys, health and social service resources, church listings, scholarships, English as a Second Language (ESL) services and more.
77 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 466-8333
ochla.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/ochla/latino-community
Somali-led non-profit improving the lives of immigrant and refugee families in Franklin County. Services for adults include case management/eviction prevention, ESL/ESOL classes, and mental health first aid classes. The food pantry/Community Free Store is available for income-eligible families by appointment only, call to make an appointment. Youth programs include free summer camp opportunities, and Our Light Program for boys ages 17-22. The organization also accepts volunteers.
2021 East Dublin Granville Road, Suite 197, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 733-9555
ourhelpers.org
Provides technical assistance and training opportunities for professionals and organizations, and is dedicated to improving outcomes for refugees resettled in the United States. They have a State Resource Map that anyone can use to find information on cash and food assistance, healthcare, programs for English language learners, job search assistance, and other important resources specific to your state. Visit the website to contact the organization directly.
Resource Map: refugeewelcome.org/state-resources
Resource Center assisting with basic needs for New Americans. Services include ESL classes, employment services, computer literacy, citizenship assistance, homework and reading help, a monthly legal clinic, and summer programming for elementary and middle school children. Their office welcomes walk-ins for any questions about navigating life in America.
1520 Old Henderson Road, Columbus, OH 43220
(614) 427-3368
riverviewinternationalcenter.org
Non-profit founded by Somali immigrants serving elders, working adults, teens, and children at no charge, with special support and attention for recent immigrants. Services include ESL classes, translation services, employment assistance, youth after school programs and summer programs, citizenship/legal advocacy, financial assistance, case management, and more. Call their office for personal assistance and current program offerings.
3422 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43224
(614) 262-4068
somaliohio.org
Faith-based community center operated by Holy-Rosary-St. John and St. Dominic Catholic Church offering a variety of services. Click here for a program flyer.
640 South Ohio Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
stjohncommunitycenter.wordpress.com
Offers free English classes for adults in Franklin County. They have courses for beginner and intermediate levels. Classes are held at multiple locations in Columbus each week. Visit the website to view class times, locations, and to register.
2121 Bethel Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(740) 971-7494
thelingoproject.org
Mutual assistance agency serving refugees and immigrants in Ohio. Services include ESL classes, interpreter services, intensive case management, comprehensive care for victims of crime or gender violence, citizenship tutoring, healthcare access, and more.
Faith-based organization providing a variety of services for families. Youth services include an early childhood center for ages 6 week-PreK, after-school and summer programs for K-12 and youth sports/fitness programs. Adult education programs include GED prep classes, English as a Second Language (ESOL/ESL), recovery groups, parenting programs, financial counseling, career development services, art classes, and Red Cross CPR classes. They also offer a free health clinic, free legal clinic, immigration counseling services, and financial counseling. The food pantry serves zip codes 43229, 43224, 43231 and requires registration for a shopping appointment.
Food Pantry: 4664 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43231
Community Center: 6000 Cooper Road, Westerville, Ohio 43081
(614) 259-5238
vineyardcommunitycenter.org
