In addition to hearing great information about the Rotary International "Paul Harris Fellowship" which can be learned about on the RI
website we heard today from
Gary Elfers who is the Executive Director of
Affordable Language Services.
He began by asking... “How many languages do you think there are in the region of NKY and southern Ohio? Answer: Over 100
His company offers translation (written) and interpretation (verbal) for the Greater Cincinnati Area and even help in the Clermont, Warren & Hamilton county courts . Gary explained the difference between a bilingual speaker (more casual) and a formal interpreter (trained in specific terminology including courts, medical, etc.). Several agencies are even requesting that interpreters be certified. Affordable Language hires people part-time, by the hour ($15-$35/hr) as needed. They are constantly networking to expand their base of help so that when a need arises they can meet it.
How does his service benefit the community? Well, Gary gave an example of how a family might come to Children's hospital and be unable to communicate with the doctors...Affordable Language helps on-site, usually within 30-45 minutes. They also help with over 170 languages via the telephone. This company even helps other companies update their websites to appeal to those of various languages and provides help for those companies. By helping businesses communicate with their own employees they can actually increase the likelihood employees will understand policies and procedures which can often lead to fewer workplace injuries and fewer worker's comp claims..
Chris Smith shared how he was on a jury a while back and how a translation service made a major difference in the proper handling of the case. Mac Hickman shared a personal testimony of how the exchange students will often shake their head even when they don't understand what you're saying and how greatly a service like this is needed.
Our speaker next week is: Dave Uibel of Vista Grand Ranch