Ayuda’s Language Access Program (LAP) exists so that anyone can get help when they need it, regardless of the languages they use to communicate. A big part of how we pursue this goal is by training interpreters on how to work in a victim services or a legal setting. Our trainings help grow the talent pool for local nonprofits and pro bono lawyers seeking language access support for those they serve – but they also have a meaningful impact for our interpreters, creating lifelong immigrant champions.
Today we’re celebrating Thien-Tho Ngoc Nguyen, a Vietnamese Interpreter whose work includes supporting survivors through Ayuda’s interpreter banks. Thien-Tho recently retired after 10 years of service, and was kind enough to share her experiences with us!
How did you come to be involved with Ayuda?
I first connected with Ayuda in October 2014, when they reached out to my director at Boat People SOS about their “Breaking Silence” interpreter training. I have been a case manager there since 2007 and was invited to join the meeting with Ayuda. After that first meeting and an interview, I took a skills test with Ayuda on October 31. From there, I attended the training and signed a contract to become part of the Victim Services Interpreter Bank (VSIB).
I still have my certificate from the 2014 training today!
What does language access mean to you?
To me, language access means being able to get an interpreter in the language that you need.
For example, sometimes I request language access from an agency, and they’ll connect me with an interpreter.
As an interpreter, what role do you have in Ayuda’s mission?
As an interpreter, I play an important role in helping immigrants who can’t communicate directly with their attorneys or other service providers. When a language barrier exists between an immigrant client and their attorney, I interpret to make sure they understand each other accurately. Whether the client needs a protective order, to apply for shelter, or a green card, interpreters like me can provide language support.
What’s one thing about interpretation that you wish more people knew?
I wish that more people knew about Language Access at Ayuda and at agencies that offer language access. Because without it, many people can’t get the help they need.
I’ve seen how challenging it is when agencies lack language support, especially for Vietnamese speakers. If more organizations had designated phone lines for language access, it would make a tremendous difference for clients and their families who rely on these services.
What are some of your most memorable moments or experiences from Ayuda interpretation assignments?
I am very grateful for the services of Ayuda, because I love helping my Vietnamese community and clients.
One of my most memorable cases involved a very young womann around 18 years old. A U.S. resident visited her in Vietnam to get to know her and brought her back with him to get married. Once she was in the United States, he abused her emotionally and financially. One day, her husband hit and choked her, leaving her throat bruised. She called 911 and reported it to the police. From there, she found a law firm to help with her immigration case, and I was assigned to interpret between her and the attorney.
The legal battle was very complex and lasted over 4 years. But at last, she got her immigration case approved. She now has a loving boyfriend who treats her well. At the end of the case, the client thanked me profusely for interpreting for her so many times. But for me, I am thankful to her and to my clients.
In your view, how is the language access program at Ayuda unique?
Ayuda’s language access program is exceptional because of the high level of expertise and support it provides to victims. The Interpreter Bank ensures that interpreters are prepared to assist victims with specialized care and professionalism. I’m deeply grateful for Ayuda’s services and the opportunities they provide for interpreters like me to help clients in a meaningful way.
What does “Ayuda” mean to you?
Ayuda is the Spanish word for “help,” but to me, I know Ayuda as an organization that supports immigrants coming from anywhere in the world. It helps immigrant survivors get protection orders, find housing, seek a green card – anything that they need to survive and thrive.
Want to get involved in Ayuda’s Language Access Program? Learn more