Saheli Economic Services

Career Assistance and Economic Independence

Saheli is deeply committed to strengthening women’s economic independence by providing career assistance, referrals, information and networking opportunities. We assist women by helping them to find suitable jobs, training, and education. Our education and skill building programs include holding classes for ESL (English as a Second Language), citizenship and computer literacy. Sahelis also assist women in writing resumes and preparing for job interviews.

Economic dependence is an often-cited factor that keeps women in violent homes (as quoted by Family Violence Prevention Fund.). The link between a woman’s dependent status and domestic violence makes it critical for Saheli to develop a strong program around building a sense of economic self-worth and independence. Moreover, our programs assist abused women to make a successful transition into the workforce and achieve independence. Economic distress does not cause domestic violence but there is no question that economic self-sufficiency is a vital key to enable women's freedom from violence.

Saheli offers:

English As A Second Language Classes

We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race or ethnic origi
Two levels of English as a Second Language (ESL) classes (Level I and II)
Two teacher and an administrator available to advise and guide students
40 students have graduated since the start of classes in spring 2002

Location of Classes

Burlington Public Library – 22 Sears Rd., Burlington, MA 01803 - Sunday, 2:30-4:30.
For more information contact mala342000@yahoo.com

Computer Literacy Classes

Training in Microsoft Word, Excel and the Internet
Hands on workshops
Trained instructors, individual computers, personal attention
Learning material supplied free
We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race or ethnic origin

Location of Classes

Waltham Public Library, 735 Main Street, Waltham, MA
For more information about our PC classes, contact Seema.

Saheli started computer literacy classes in Waltham Public Library in March 2009. Computer classes are free, and open to all students regardless of age, race or nationality. Classes run for twelve weeks and students are given certificates of completion. The topics covered include how to use the Internet, email, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint. Saheli awarded certificates to twenty students in its first session. Students are enthusiastic learners, many bring their own laptops and notebooks, the library supplies and sets up ten computers. Classes are held on Monday 6:30-8:30 pm. There is a lot of excitement and energy in every class. Please volunteer to be a teacher or teacher’s assistant for classes starting in September by writing to sahelihelp at Gmail dot com. Here are some comments from students…

"First of all I want to thank you for donating your time to teach as computers. Thanks to you and your friends what I learned from you is helping me at school. So ones again thanks I'll always remember you. Good luck."
Maria Olga Diana
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"To the volunteer teachers who offered classes by Saheli, Support and Friendship South Asian Women, I say thank you.
Your dedication, patience, knowledge, and excellent teaching skills, offered to members of the Waltham community has made for a successful beginning experience with computers.
This support enhances friendship among a multicultural community. I extend my appreciation to Gouri Banerjee, Mala Krishnamurthy, Paulomi Gudka and Samantika Subramanium."
Poppy Sotis
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"Hi: I'm having lots of fun with this class."
Cano Hernandez

Other Economic Independence Programs

Job Search assistance, networking and referrals
Seminars on career development
Help with resume writing and cover letters
Interviewing, dressing and communicating skills
South Asian Women entrepreneurs program assists and encourages entrepreneurship by providing opportunities to showcase businesses, skills and talents at major South Asian events.

These web links are extremely useful for those preparing resumes, writing cover letters and exploring career options. Check them out: