Organized by Angelos Mission Ensemble
AME Supports The Open Door
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Angelos Mission Ensemble (put "The Open Door" in Memo!)
11 Van Dyke Drive
Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ 07423
Since 2011, the Angelos Mission Ensemble (AME) youth have prepared a public Benefit Concert at the conclusion of their summer program to raise money for a worthy community cause. Each year, the proceeds go to a different organization or individual. This year, under the theme "Celebrating Heart," 100% of the proceeds from AME's Benefit Concert on June 29th will support The Open Door, an organization that provides immigrant families with the support they need to become strong, contributing members of society. Since its implementation in 2010, The Open Door has served over 7,000 immigrants through weekly English, GED Math, and computer classes, as well as community-building activities.
The Open Door was founded by Luis and Maggie Iza, both immigrants from Cuba. Although they came to America at different times and stages of their lives, they both vividly remember the challenges they faced upon arrival in the United States as well as the people who supported them. Motivated by a desire to extend the same love and grace they received, the Izas founded The Open Door to help new Americans integrate into mainstream society.
After studying the demographics of their hometown, West New York, NJ, the Izas discovered a significant influx of immigrants over the years. With 80% of the population being Latino and 60% foreign-born, many West New York residents spoke limited or no English. This language barrier led to challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and high school dropout rates among recent immigrants.
Recognizing that limited English proficiency was a major risk factor for poverty, the Izas began The Open Door NJNY as an ESL program. They later expanded it to include computer and GED preparation classes. In 2014, The Open Door recognized similar unmet needs across the river and launched its first New York site on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.
To date, The Open Door has 4 program sites: West New York, NJ, the Upper West Side, East Harlem, and a virtual platform and serves over 600 immigrants annually.
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