What is the difference between The CLC and The Friends?

The Friends of the Community Learning Center, established in 1992, is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that raises financial support and public awareness of the importance of adult education and supports the work of the Community Learning Center (CLC). Adult education is for adults who need to further their education and training in order to improve their lives and the lives of their families and to be contributing members of the communities in which they live.

The Cambridge Community Learning Center is funded by The Cambridge Department of Human Services. To learn more about the CLC visit the CLC's website here.

Where does the money go when I donate?

Over 90% of the funds that the Friends of CLC raise goes directly to student services. Unless specifically designated, your donations might help pay for ESOL classes, support academic and career counseling, provide scholarships for graduates to attend college, or cover emergency expenditures for students whose unforeseen circumstances threaten their ability to continue their studies.

All donors are given the option to designate their funds for a particular cause if they so choose.

Who runs this organization?

Meet our 100% volunteer Board of Directors here.

How can my business partner with The Friends?

Businesses can partner with the Friends in many different ways, including the following:

• Sponsoring student scholarships

• Establishing job training or ESOL workplace programs to elevate employees' skills

• Underwriting the Bridge-to-College program

• Providing volunteer tutors

• Donating equipment or supplies

• Joining the Board of the Friends

Who can I contact to learn more? How can I (or my business) get involved with The Friends?

For general information about the Community Learning Center, please contact Maria Kefallinou, Director, at mkefallinou@cambridgema.gov.

For information about the Friends of CLC, please contact Phyllis Benjamin, President, at phyllis.benjamin@gmail.com.

For information about business partnerships (scholarship sponsorship, donations, etc.), please contact Louis NeJame, Board member, at lneJame@tytonpartners.com.

Are The Friends a 501(c)(3) organization?

Yes! The Friends of the CLC are a 501(c)(3) organization. Our EIN is 04-3148659. All donations to the Friends of the CLC are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.