When she became a volunteer for Intercambio de Comunidad, Becky Birkelo had no idea she would help immigrants pursue the American dream. She was just there to give back to the community.

Intercambio provides free English classes for Latino immigrants to reduce language and cultural barriers. Birkelo teaches intermediate classes twice a week at Skyline High School. Both of Birkelo’s grandparents and parents spoke Spanish at home. Even so, Birkelo says she understands more than she speaks.

“I learn from my students,” she said.

“Becky’s wonderful,” said Lee Shainis, executive director of Intercambio. “She’s extremely hard-working and a most valuable volunteer. All of her students form strong relationships with her. They have nothing but positive feedback about working with her.”

Birkelo’s students are mostly from Mexico, but she’s worked with immigrants from Peru, Honduras and Guatemala. Her students come to the United States to pursue opportunities they cannot find in their home countries.

“They want more for themselves and their children,” Birkelo said.

Her students struggle to find a comfortable place between the American lifestyle and their native culture. However, she said she believes we all have the same concerns.

“Children and family are an important part of their lives,” Birkelo said. “We all want to own a home, keep our children safe and have opportunities.

“A lot of students enjoy living here but don’t want to become citizens,” she said. “In their hearts, to give up their citizenship is to give up their homeland and their pasts.”

Birkelo helps her students with their language and life skills. They work on pronunciation by reading out loud. Then, through role-playing, they deal with day-to-day situations such as speaking to a doctor, ordering a meal and interviewing for a job. Homework helps them practice their English writing skills.

Birkelo’s goal is to help her students fit in with American culture and succeed. “Instead of a melting pot, we’re a salad,” she said. By keeping their culture intact, “no one loses their flavor,” she said.

For information about volunteering with Intercambio de Comunidad or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection East at 303-772-5772.