NORTHRIDGE, CA (September 3, 2009) \u2013 A computer training program piloted by Emmanuel Covenant Church has proved so successful it will be expanded next month.<\/p>\n
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Leonardo and Carmen Carrillo, who attend the church, started the bilingual Computer Learning Center (Centro de Aprendizaje de Computacion) over the summer. The program is a reflection of the church, which conducts services in Spanish and English.<\/p>\n
Leonardo says, \u201cThis pilot project was born after identifying the needs in our community for English and non-English speakers with our desire not only to serve the human needs but to equally serve them spiritually.\u201d<\/p>\n
Carmen adds, \u201cIn the process of combining the two objectives, we consider the actual community context or situation and the desire and need of our community to be equipped, in order to improve their employment and educational opportunities.\u201d<\/p>\n
Leonardo and Carmen initiated what was to be an intensive Microsoft Word course for adult beginners in July. The learning center was equipped with eight computers. Church members contributed four computers, and Oak Meadow School donated four.<\/p>\n
Course participants met twice weekly from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. The class was offered free of charge, but each participant was asked to pay a $15 deposit that would be returned upon completion of the program.<\/p>\n
The class attracted eleven students, who sought more than computer training. \u201cWe as leaders and teachers have discovered that those participating in the project come not only to learn but also to receive personal care,\u201d says Carmen.<\/p>\n
The pilot program, which ends September 6, has been so successful that the church is going to continue the program. The current class will receive advanced training, and another course will be offered for beginners.<\/p>\n
Originally from Colombia, Leonardo and Carmen are about to complete their bachelor of Christian ministry degree at the Evangelical Covenant Church\u2019s Hispanic training center, CHET (Centro Hispano de Estudios Teol\u00f3gicas). CHET professor and Emmanuel interim pastor Marv Gibbs serves as their mentor.<\/p>\n