Speaking Your Language
There is nothing like finding someone who understands you—really understands you.
That’s why Irina Chermeshnyuk, “Shams” and all the other volunteer interpreters at the City’s Mini City Hall are so appreciated by the Crossroads community.
Where else can you find native speakers of Spanish, Russian, Korean, Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese,) Hindi, Bengali, Urdu and Tagalog ready to help navigate the maze of information and services important in our lives? That’s only a start. A dual-handset language phone sits on the counter that connects speakers of more than 30 languages through an on-line interpreter.
The range of conversation topics at Mini City Hall is wide. “I talk to people about trips, divorce, school, health, shopping…everything!” exclaims Daniel Kim, a city volunteer and Korean interpreter.
Barb Tuininga, the community involvement coordinator for Mini City Hall, said “it’s all about matching people’s needs with resources, regardless of the language they speak. Often the conversation begins when someone stops by to pay a bill or ask for directions.” By asking the right questions, Barb and her volunteers can help visitors get answers and feel connected to their community.
Is it any wonder why Crossroads is such a special place—for so many?
Bellevue Mini City Hall
