Community Services and Interpreting Training (COSI)

Applications are now closed for the 2026 season. Please check back for updates on future programming in March 2027.

This free training program is for people who are interested in helping their community as interpreters or human service providers. Participants will learn about the interpreting and human services fields, improve their job search skills, and earn relevant credentials, like the 40-hour Community Interpreter certificate and NorthStar Digital Literacy certificates. Participants will also have the option to earn financial incentives!

Participants will attend the industry-recognized The Community Interpreter 40-hour training as well as job skill classes taught by an Adult Basic Education (ABE) teacher. During training, we will…

• Learn interpreter code of ethics and standards of practice
• Practice interpreting skills both in the classroom and out in the field
• Network with professionals in the interpreting and human service fields
• Participate in mock interviews and resume workshops
• Improve digital skills with NorthStar Digital LiteracyFind and collect interpreting resources, such as glossaries, primary sources, and translated documents
• Learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom, so participants will also have the option to complete work experiences and receive financial incentives. Work experiences include…

Observing interpreters and tour common workplaces 

• Networking with employers and other working professionals 
• Practicing interpreting skills in the community 
• Participants can also receive incentives for beginning and providing proof of relevant employment!

Schedule:
2026 Summer Training

Dates: June 9th – August 13th, 2026 (10 weeks) 
Time: Tuesday and Thursday from 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Location: In-person in Roseville, MN

• Eligibility Requirements:
• Able to commit to attending training in-person and on-time.  
• Desire to work in Human Services or as an interpreter. Underemployed; looking for work.  
• Authorized to work in the United States.  
• Proficiency in speaking 2 or more languages; first language other than English. 
• Have a high school diploma/adult diploma/GED (does not need to be from the US). 
• Are at least 18 and not in high school during training.  
• Are a Minnesota Resident.

Applications are now closed for the 2026 season. Please check back for updates on future programming in March 2027.

For more information, contact Dunn Yoshitani| phone: 651-202-3119 | email: dyoshitani@mnkaren.org