About Us

As we let people of other cultures into our lives we are enriched.

Why have an international community center?

Buncombe County is home to native speakers of over 45 different languages. This foreign born population has increased significantly since 1994, yet these residents continue to face major barriers and gaps in services.

International Link was founded:

To serve as a resource and support center, assisting Western N.C.'s foreign born population in accessing the community and addressing barriers.

To provide a central place for cross-cultural exchange in an effort to develop greater understanding and appreciation of people of diverse cultures.

To offer an English as a Second Language (ESL) educational program unique to Western N.C. in the provision of numerous support services.

How we benefit the community? We provide a central place for:

Resource and Support Services

  • Information and referral - jobs, health care, housing, schools
  • Interpreters and translators
  • Foreign language library
  • ESL educational resource library - for students, teachers, tutors
  • Liaison to employers and service providers
  • Skills bank

Cross-cultural Exchange

  • Meeting place for people of all cultures
  • Conversation hours to practice a language with a native speaker
  • Ethnic musical and visual treats
  • International dinners
  • Cultural events
  • International Women's Friendship Circle

English as a Foreign Language (EFL)

  • Tailor-made tutoring sessions in all skill areas for beginning to advanced levels
  • Extensive conversation practice in a safe, supportive setting
  • Writing task assistance - applications, letter and resume writing, editing
  • Children's activities
  • ESL educational consultant services - for educators, service providers

Services are free, but clients are encouraged to contribute by donation and by volunteering.

Our supporters say...

"You are filling a void that was quickly becoming an area of need in our community and I am very grateful that you're doing such important work."
-Leni Sitnick, Former Mayor

"We really appreciate your friendship at bad moments. Thank you for International Link because we found friends there." Carol Ponce, ESL Tutoring Client

"I work with the Latino population and understand the need for an agency to be available to immigrants. International Link is meeting a great need."
-Toerin Leppink, Catholic Social Services

"I appreciate your being a tremendous resource to our 'Discover the World Cultural Camp'."
-Deb Vingle

How are we funded?

As a non-profit, 501(c)3 charitable organization we depend on grants and donations from civic and religious groups, businesses and individuals. International Link opened its doors with the help of a United Way Venture Grant.

Your tax-deductible donation will enable us to expand the center's much needed services as our local international population continues to grow.

How you can help:

  • Participate in our programs and events.
  • Become a volunteer to meet and assist friends from our international community
  • Donate an item from our wish list
  • Support the important work of the center through financial contributions

We are in a great central location in downtown Asheville, just one block from the bus center and the post office.

Come see what our center has to offer you!