In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Kenosha Creative Space is offering a free, community‑run language exchange called Vive el Idioma. The program meets every Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Creative Space facility, giving residents a convenient local venue to practice speaking English and Spanish in real‑life conversations.
Why the program matters to Kenosha families
Organizer Kelly Benitez says the goal is to create a relaxed setting outside of a formal classroom where people can talk about everyday topics with native speakers. “It’s important to have a space outside of an academic setting to be able to come and start conversations with real people about, you know, real topics,” Benitez explained.
For many newcomers, language barriers have limited job prospects and social connections. Veronica Perez, who moved to the United States as an adult, described how learning English opened doors for her family. “When I came to this country, it was very hard ’cause I didn’t know the English language,” she said. “Knowing a new language opens so many doors for you.”
Local access replaces long trips to larger cities
Benitez noted that similar language‑exchange opportunities often require travel to Milwaukee or Chicago, making Vive el Idioma a valuable resource for Kenosha residents who prefer a neighborhood option. The program is open to all ages, and organizers plan to add additional languages if community interest grows.
Community leaders endorse cultural understanding
Francisco Loyola, executive director of Kenosha Creative Space, emphasized the broader benefit of fostering cultural understanding. “When people connect across language lines, they build friendships and strengthen the fabric of our community,” Loyola said.
The free program aligns with the city’s ongoing efforts to support immigrant families, promote bilingualism, and encourage neighborly interaction. By offering a safe, welcoming environment, Vive el Idioma helps participants gain confidence, improve language skills, and expand personal and professional networks without cost.
How to join
Anyone interested can simply show up on Thursday evenings. No registration fee or prior language proficiency is required. The Creative Space staff will guide conversation groups and ensure a supportive atmosphere for beginners and more fluent speakers alike.
For more information, visit the Kenosha Creative Space website or contact the organizers directly.
Original reporting: Kenosha.com — read the source article.
