The Multicultural Program at Whistlestop provides cultural activities that include weekly social gatherings, luncheons and picnics, and celebrations for culturally specific holidays such as the Tet Festival (Vietnamese/Chinese New Year), Cinco de Mayo, and Nowruz (Persian New Year). We help to connect various cultural groups in Marin by bringing them together to socialize and take classes. We also provide assistance with U.S. citizenship, housing opportunities, health education, in-home support, subsidy programs and more. When requested, referrals and translation are provided.
Presently, groups are meeting from the Hispanic, Vietnamese, Persian, and German communities. The weekly groups are listed below. Please check our home page for upcoming events and celebrations. Drop-ins are welcome!
A Trip Around the World
Wednesday April 17th, 2013, 12-2pm - - Come celebrate the 20th year Anniversary of the Multicultural Department by taking a trip around the world.
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NEW! Imparare l’italiano! (Learn Italian!)
Tuesdays and Thursdays 3-4pm, starting in May. Learn Italian with our new teacher Elizabeth Guagenti.
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NEW! Russian Social Group
This is a great opportunity for Russian speakers to have a support group and a good time in the community.
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Do you want to be a tutor?
The multicultural department is looking for volunteer tutors to help our older adults learn English.
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French Social Club
Please join our new French social club. Great way to meet other fellow French speakers.
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New! English Pronunciation Class
This class will explore reading, conversation, and pronunciation exercises. Basic knowledge of the English language is required.
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Jewelry Class
Jewelry Class - Maria Barsesat, local bead artist, will be teaching different techniques on how to make chic and modern jewelry. Great gift for yourself or others.
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Computer Classes (Spanish)
Learn basic computer skills, create an email account and search the Internet.
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Video – Whistlestop Multicultural
Video - Whistlestop's multicultural clients and the activities that happen at Whistlestop
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Monday AM
Mondays, 10 to 11am - Start your week with sharing your opinions about important and entertaining subjects.
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Persian Group
Mondays & Wednesdays, 10:30 to 1:30pm - Group led by our volunteer Persian Coordinator to promote socialization, education and support.
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German Group (Deutsche Gesellschaft)
Tuesdays, 11 to 12:30pm - Discussion group led by our volunteer German Coordinator, which meets weekly for social purposes and support.
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ESL (English as a Second Language)
Mondays and Wednesdays, 2-3:30pm
Whistlestop’s ESL classes are designed to develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills to help students integrate into the community.
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Citizenship
Mondays, 3:30 to 5:00pm - Prepares students for the naturalization test.
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Spanish Class
Tuesdays, 1 to 3pm - This is an on-going Spanish class emphasizing conversional Spanish, grammar and reading comprehension.
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English Conversation
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 2 to 3:30pm - Practical English for everyday life for students of all nationalities.
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Spanish Social Club/Corazón Latino
Wednesdays, 10:30 to 11:30am - Weekly gathering for Hispanic people meant to provide opportunities for socialization and education.
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Knit!!!
Thursdays, 10 to Noon - Spanish group focusing on the art of knitting and relaxing.
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Pickleweed Community Center
Every other Friday, 11 to 1pm - A Partnership between Whistlestop, San Rafael Community Center, and Marin County Division of Aging and Adult Services providing special programs to promote socialization, education, entertainment, and a nutritious lunch.
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A.C.A.S.A. (Amigos Consejeros A Su Alcance)
Fridays, 1:30 to 3:30pm - Spanish speaking older adult peer counseling. A.C.A.S.A. utilies the skills and experiences of older adults in a self-help approach to wellness.
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