English as a Second Language

Our classes are called HOPE, which stands for Helping Others Practice English. Our goal is to help students learn practical conversation skills and make meaningful connections.

We are followers of Jesus. We want to obey Jesus because we believe he is God. In the Bible, Jesus tells us to love and welcome our neighbors. You are our neighbor! We care about you and want to help you learn English and be successful in America. 

Our English teachers are trained volunteers. From September to May we have two semesters of English classes for adults. Classes are once a week for two hours. Our classes focus on conversation, learning to understand and speak English. We have beginner to advanced classes and students are encouraged to start any time.

Classes are held at four locations around the city of Erie, some meet during the day and some at night. Check back for dates and times!

CLASS INFORMATION

Registration

Summer Classes

Class subject to cancellation due to teacher availability. 1 week’s notice will be given for any cancellation.

Daytime Classes

Vietnamese Alliance Church

Date: weekly on Tuesdays
Time: 9:30–11:30am
Place: 722 E 6th St, Erie, PA 16507

English class levels: 0, 1, 3

Summer Session: June 3 - July 29

Grandview Alliance Church

Childcare is available for ages 0–6.

Date: weekly on Thursdays
Time: 9:30–11:30am
Place: 1102 E Gore Rd | Erie, PA 16504

English class levels: 0, 1, 2, 4

Summer Session: June 5 - June 26

McKinley Elementary School

Children’s program with tutoring for ages 6–12.

Date: weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday
Time: TBD
Place: 933 E 22nd St | Erie, PA 16503
Room: 39 (Upstairs)

English class levels: 0, 1, 2

Summer Session: July 1 - August 14

Driving Class

Vietnamese Alliance Church

Date: weekly on Wednesdays
Time: 9:30–11:30am
Place: 722 E 6th St, Erie, PA 16507

Summer Session: April 28 - June 11 (No Class May 28)

This class is designed for those who cannot read their native language and therefore can’t study for the permit test. Students will learn road safety and prepare for the permit exam. Students can schedule time to practice on a computer simulator.

Citizenship Class

Date: weekly on Thursdays
Time: 6:30–8:00pm
Place: 1102 E Gore Rd | Erie, PA 16504

Summer Session: June 19 - July 31 (No class July 17)

Are you preparing for the citizenship exam? Join this summer class to learn and review the material needed for the 100 questions.

English levels 3 and above

EVENTS

SUMMER INFO MEETING
for interested volunteers

Date: Monday June 16, 2025
Time: 6:30PM – 8:00PM
Place: First Alliance Church | 2939 Zimmerly Road, Erie, PA 16506
Room: B106 (Music Room – East Entrance)

Have you been curious about HOPE Ministry and want to get involved but not sure if you can help? Well, if you love Jesus, love people and speak English, you can help! We need volunteers to help in our English classes one afternoon a week for 2 hours from July 1–mid August. You don't need to have teaching experience or speak another language to help. Outside of English, there's a need for childcare, transportation, sewing and more!

HOPE ESL Training

August 22–23, 2025

First Alliance Church | 2939 Zimmerly Road, Erie, PA 16506

Don’t miss our two-day ESL training with HOPE! If you have a heart for missions or serving others, this training covers everything you need to know to teach English to adult internationals. Interested and current volunteers will benefit from this ESL Teacher Training, which introduces practical English techniques applicable to all experience levels. You do not need to speak a foreign language or be a professional teacher to attend this training. To become a certified English as a Second Language volunteer, you only need to speak English, love Jesus, and love people! Register by August 11.

GET CONNECTED

HOPE Volunteers

Interested in serving with HOPE Ministry? There are so many opportunities! You don’t need to speak a foreign language or have professional experience. If you love Jesus and love people, you can volunteer! Service hours are available upon request.

There are so many opportunities to get involved, both in and outside of the classroom. We have morning, afternoon and evening classes at 4 locations around Erie. Most volunteers serve one day a week for 2 hours. Training is available. Request more information and an application below.

HOPE Newsletter

Want to stay connected? Sign up for our monthly newsletter for volunteers and supporters of HOPE Ministry.

Want to learn more?

If you are interested in more information about HOPE, fill out the form below to get in touch with our HOPE ministry leader, Amy McCullough.
amccullough@facerie.org | 814-833-9862 x241