Devin Schniepp highlights Multinational Memphis

Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Devin Schniepp, Executive Director of Multinational Memphis, who highlights the nonprofit organization working with children and families who have immigrated to Memphis, Tennessee, providing free after-school programming and adult English classes for women. During the interview, Devin shares how Multinational Memphis has been working in the community for nearly 30 years and has evolved over the years by developing programming to meet the community's changing needs. Through their programs, Multinational Memphis helps children reach their academic goals and helps empower women through the English language to navigate life in the Memphis community.

Devin talks about their after-school program, which is designed specifically to help students in grades Kindergarten through 12th grade who may not have a native English speaker in their home who can help them with homework and learning how to read. Students in their program receive homework help, reading and math practice, and also get to do some type of arts and crafts every afternoon. They also get dedicated play time and recreational time. Multinational Memphis maintains an environment where kids feel loved and supported, and their parents also can receive help and assistance. Multinational Memphis also provides transportation to their participants, which is a vital part of their program.

In addition to the weekly programs, Devin discusses some of the ways she and her team help parents navigate the school system and assist in school registration or school transfers when families need assistance. She then highlights their summer program and a current fundraising effort to help provide four to six weeks of a full day of a summer program that includes reading and literacy skills practice, science and music lessons, recreational time, field trips and a heavy focus on ART and craft activities.

Devin talks about the importance of daily art as a therapeutic outlet for the kids and how it supports them holistically in their academic and social emotional development. Devin then highlights their 4 levels of English language classes for women, and a preschool readiness classroom for their children. Through this program, Multinational Memphis is empowering women with their mastery of the English language and also to supporting them through genuine friendship and community. Devin wraps up talking about the ripple impact and importance of their efforts in connecting Memphis, and how the community can get involved to support their efforts and programming.

Visit https://www.multinationalmemphis.org to learn more and to get involved with Multinational Memphis.