Community Services and Interpreting Training (COSI)

To apply for the 2024 training, fill out the online application. If you want to stay up to date on future training, complete this form to receive updates and information on future training. 

This free training program is for people who are interested in helping their community as bilingual professionals. During this training, participants will learn about the human services and interpreting fields, improve their job search skills, and earn relevant credentials, like the 40-hour Community Interpreter certificate, Leadership Essentials Certificate, and 9-college credits in Human Services courses. The classes are in-person in Roseville, MN.

The program may be a good fit for you if you: 

• Want to work with a job counselor to set goals for your career. 
• Want support to develop college academic skills.  
• Are able to commit 2-4 nights per week to classes and homework with occasional Saturdays. 

Please watch the following presentation to learn more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aES3TN2RPWg

Level 1: Two Training Sessions 

During Level 1, participants will learn more about the human services and interpreting fields and explore which might be best for them. Employers will visit the classroom to offer valuable insight into what these jobs are like and what career pathways exist, and students will have the opportunity observe professionals in the fields and gain experience themselves. They will also work with their Career Counselor to improve their resumes and practice their interviewing skills.

Participants will also have the opportunity to earn certificates in level 1. Human Services and Interpreting jobs can require strong digital skills, so students will work on their digital skills using NorthStar Digital Literacy. They will also participate in the 40-hour Community Interpreter training offered by Weaving Cultures. During this training, students will learn about the ethics and tools needed to provide accurate and professional interpretation from skilled interpreters with several years of experience.

We will have two training sessions for Level 1, so you can choose the session that works best for you! Classes meet two evenings per week plus the occasional Saturday.

• Session 1: March-May, Monday and Thursday from 5-9 PM
• Session 2: June-August, Tuesday and Wednesday 5-9 PM

Class meets two evenings per week for eight weeks. Homework is assigned weekly. 

Level 2: One Training Session

If a participant successfully completes level 1, they have the option of joining Level 2! Participants in level 2 will complete the Leadership Essentials Program from the University of Minnesota’s College of Continuing & Professional Studies and work with an Adult Education instructor to support them throughout the classes. Students will also participate in college preparation workshops to learn about the university system, essential study skills, complete college applications, and more.

Level 2 will begin in August and end in December of 2024. We do not have exact dates yet but will post that information when it becomes available.

Level 3: One Training Session

For clients who plan to work in Human Services, they may enroll in Human Services coursework at Century College. Students will attend three classes and participate in a support class with an Adult Education instructor. The support classes will focus on understanding core concepts and completing homework. Clients who complete level 3 will earn 9-college credits that can be applied toward Century’s Certificate or Associate Degree.

Level 3 will begin January 2025 and end in May of that year. We do not have exact dates yet but will post that information when it becomes available.

Eligibility requirements: 

• Able to commit to a rigorous training schedule 2-4 nights per week with occasional Saturdays &  complete independent assignments.
• Desire 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). 
• At least 18 and not in high school during training. 
• Are a Minnesota resident. 

Application process: 

To apply for the 2024 training, fill out the online application. If you want to stay up to date on future training, complete this form to receive updates and information on future trainings.

For more information, contact Brooke Nelson | phone: (651) 253-6330 | email: bnelson@mnkaren.org!