Tag Archives: best certified interpreter services

Homeland Language Services, a Small Veteran-Owned Business, was Awarded with a Prestigious Multiple Award Schedule Contract with U.S. General Services Administration (GSA)

Homeland Language Services, a small veteran-owned business specializing in reliable language solutions, proudly announces that it has been awarded a Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contract with the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) in 2023. This milestone achievement reflects Homeland Language Services’ dedication to providing high-quality language services to government and federal agencies and its extensive experience supporting them, including FEMA and LAPD.

The GSA MAS contract, administered by the General Services Administration, is a prestigious accolade in government procurement. Through this contract, Homeland Language Services will offer its comprehensive suite of language solutions to government and federal agencies, including Over-the-Phone, Video Remote, and Onsite interpretation, as well as Translation services. Our Contract number on the GSA Schedule is the following: 47QRAA23D001F.

“We are honored to have been awarded the MAS contract with the U.S. General Services Administration,” said Christian Lanazca, CEO and Co-founder at Homeland Language Services. “As a small veteran-owned business, this contract reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional language services to the federal government and highlights our extensive experience supporting government and federal agencies.”

Homeland Language Services‘ proven track record of delivering customized language solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of government agencies positions it as a trusted partner in linguistic support. With a focus on accuracy, reliability, and cultural sensitivity, Homeland Language Services is poised to make a significant impact in enhancing communication and fostering inclusivity within the federal government.

About Homeland Language Services:

Homeland Language Services is a small veteran-owned business specializing in language solutions, including translation, different interpretation services, localization, and other linguistic services. With extensive experience supporting government and federal agencies, including FEMA and LAPD, Homeland Language Services delivers accurate, culturally sensitive language solutions to meet the diverse needs of its clients.

Blog
, , ,

A volunteer translator story: Andrea Alvisi translated almost 15,000 words for non-profit organizations

In the realm of humanitarian and development work, translators and interpreters play a crucial role in ensuring that vital information reaches those in need, in languages they understand. This mission is made possible by a dedicated team of volunteer translators, among whom Andrea Alvisi stands out as a shining example.

Andrea’s journey began when he was selected as an official translator for Amnesty International Italy back in 2016. This experience ignited his belief in the importance of skilled linguists dedicating their time to meaningful causes. For Andrea, volunteering his translation and interpreting skills to NGOs and charities without the means to afford professional services is not just about professional development but also about personal fulfillment.

Andrea has translated nearly 15,000 words, contributing significantly to various projects for non-profit organizations. Despite his busy schedule, he finds time in the evenings or weekends to complete assignments, thanks to the manageable deadlines and his passion for the work.

Specializing in English to Italian translations, Andrea has worked on a range of texts, from technical reports on crisis management to letters for high-profile football charities. Each project presents its own challenges, keeping him engaged and continuously learning.

Through his work, Andrea has gained valuable insights into organizations like the Red Cross, leading him to pursue further volunteering opportunities in interpreting. One particular project made him deeply consider the challenges faced by disabled football fans due to inadequate stadium infrastructure, broadening his perspective and fueling his commitment to making a difference.

Andrea’s story exemplifies the impact that volunteer translators can have in bridging language barriers and supporting humanitarian causes. If you’re interested in joining or learning more about translators and interpreters’ work, we invite you to connect with us.

At Homeland Language Services, we recognize the invaluable role of translators and interpreters in fostering understanding and promoting access to essential services. As a company committed to facilitating effective communication across languages and cultures, we invite you to join us in supporting initiatives that make a positive difference in the world.

Together, let’s continue harnessing language’s power to break down barriers, empower communities, and create a more inclusive and compassionate global society. If you’re interested in learning more about how you can contribute or benefit from our language services, we encourage you to reach out and connect with us. Let’s work together to make a meaningful impact through language and communication.

Blog
, , , ,

Happy Language Grammar Day!

Language Grammar Day is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the importance of grammar in language use and communication. It is an opportunity to raise awareness about the rules and principles that govern language structure, syntax, punctuation, and usage. Language Grammar Day encourages individuals, educators, and organizations to reflect on the significance of good grammar in effective communication, writing, and language learning. It may also involve activities such, as workshops, seminars, and educational campaigns focused on grammar skills and language proficiency.

As translators and interpreters, we understand the crucial role, that grammar plays in effective communication. However, even the most experienced language professionals can sometimes stumble upon common grammar mistakes. This blog post will delve into some common pitfalls that translators and interpreters may encounter, along with practical examples and tips to enhance grammar accuracy. Additionally, we’ll provide you with free grammar resources to help sharpen your grammar skills and elevate your language proficiency.

Here are some common grammar mistakes that translators and interpreters may encounter:

  1. Subject-Verb Agreement Errors: Incorrect matching of singular/plural subjects with verbs, leading to sentences like “The team are working” instead of “The team is working.”
  2. Punctuation Misuse: Issues such as comma splices (“I like to hike, it’s relaxing”) or missing punctuation in complex sentences.
  3. Tense Inconsistencies: Shifting between past, present, and future tenses within the same paragraph or sentence without a clear reason.
  4. Word Order Errors: Incorrect placement of adjectives, adverbs, or prepositional phrases, disrupting the flow and meaning of the sentence.
  5. Misuse of Pronouns: Using the wrong pronoun case (e.g., “Me and him went to the store” instead of “He and I went to the store”) or unclear antecedents for pronouns.
  6. Confusing Homophones: Mistaking words that sound alike but have different meanings, such as “their,” “there,” and “they’re.”
  7. Incomplete Sentences: Leaving out essential elements like subjects or verbs, resulting in fragments that don’t express complete thoughts.
  8. Double Negatives: Using two negative words in a sentence, which can create confusion or ambiguity (e.g., “I don’t want nothing” instead of “I don’t want anything”).
  9. Run-On Sentences: Connecting multiple independent clauses without proper punctuation or conjunctions, making the sentence too long and difficult to follow.
  10. Lack of Parallelism: Inconsistency in the structure of parallel elements within a sentence or list, leading to awkward phrasing or unclear comparisons.

At Homeland Language Services, we value interpreters’ indispensable role in bridging language gaps and ensuring smooth communication. We have developed two internal resources that we are excited to share to empower our interpreters and enable them to thrive in their profession.

Our online monthly course “Thrive” stands out as a valuable resource aimed at empowering interpreters through ongoing learning experiences.

Unlike traditional training programs, “Thrive” offers a comprehensive platform where interpreters can delve into diverse topics, access glossaries, and utilize online materials specifically curated to enhance their professional capabilities.

Moreover, our second resource is our regular newsletter “Monthly Matters”. Our newsletter delivers a curated selection of valuable content tailored specifically for our interpreter community. From industry news and updates to tips for professional development and success, we strive to provide interpreters with the resources they need to thrive in their roles. These free resources offer a wealth of knowledge and practice opportunities to enhance your grammar proficiency.

Additionally, we want to leave you 3 online free grammar resources!

  1. Grammarly: Offers grammar checking, writing suggestions, and educational articles on grammar and writing.
  2. Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL): Provides comprehensive guides on grammar, punctuation, and writing style.
  3. Daily Writing Tips: Offers daily grammar tips, articles on writing techniques, and grammar quizzes.

We hope this blog post has shed light on common grammar mistakes among translators/interpreters and provided valuable insights into enhancing your grammar accuracy. Remember, mastering grammar is an ongoing journey that requires continuous learning and practice.

Keep exploring, learning, and improving — your language journey awaits!

Blog
, , ,

Bonjour! International Francophonie Day should be celebrated!

Bonjour! French Language Day, also known as International Francophonie Day, which takes place on March 20th, is commemorated to celebrate the French language and Francophone culture worldwide. Homeland Language Services, a trusted language services provider with a team of skilled French-English interpreters and translators, is delighted to shed light on the importance of this celebration.

French is a widely spoken language with approximately 120 million speakers across 29 countries, alongside their native languages. The language is predominantly spoken in New England and Louisiana, with smaller communities elsewhere. The largest number of French speakers can be found in California. Significant communities of French speakers also exist in New York, Wisconsin, and Michigan, as well as throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.

In addition to French Language Day, the United Nations also observes the International Day of La Francophonie on 20th March annually. This day honors the Agency for Cultural and Technical Cooperation (ACCT), established in 1970 to promote the French language and culture globally. French language enthusiasts and cultural advocates come together on this day to celebrate the richness and importance of the French language and its heritage.

Here are some reasons why this day is significant:

  1. Promotion of Linguistic Diversity: French Language Day promotes linguistic diversity by highlighting the importance of French as a global language spoken by millions worldwide.
  2. Cultural Exchange: It provides an opportunity for cultural exchange and understanding among Francophone communities and those interested in French language and culture.
  3. Educational Initiatives: The day often includes educational initiatives such as language workshops, seminars, and cultural events to promote the learning and appreciation of the French language.
  4. Unity and Cooperation: Francophonie Day fosters unity and cooperation among French-speaking countries and regions, promoting collaboration in education, business, and the arts.
  5. Preservation of Heritage: It helps preserve and promote the rich linguistic and cultural heritage associated with the French language, including literature, music, cuisine, and traditions.

 

Language professionals play a crucial role in ensuring accurate communication between French and American cultures, whether it’s translating historical documents, legal agreements, or cultural materials. This fosters stronger ties between the two nations.

Homeland Language Services, with its dedicated team of French-English interpreters and translators, continues to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. As we celebrate, let’s appreciate the beautiful blend of French and American culture that enriches our lives and inspires future generations. Joyeuse Journée de la Langue Française! Happy French Language Day!

Blog
, , , , ,

Homeland Language Services and Reynolds School District Forge Successful Partnership in Language Interpretation Services

Homeland Language Services, a reliable language services provider, supports the Reynolds School District with exemplary language interpretation.

The Reynolds School District expressed deep appreciation for Homeland Language Services’ exceptional commitment and efficiency in delivering language interpretation services. The Reynolds School District highlighted Homeland Language Services’ invaluable role in facilitating effective communication between the school district and parents from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

One of the key aspects lauded by the Reynolds School District is Homeland Language Services’ user-friendly online portal for requesting interpreters. This portal has significantly streamlined the process, enabling the district’s department to access language interpretation services promptly and efficiently.

“Homeland Language Services stands out for their unwavering commitment to promptly resolving any issues that may arise. Whenever there is a situation where an interpreter is unavailable, the team at Homeland Language Services takes proactive steps to ensure that alternative arrangements are made promptly. This level of responsiveness has greatly contributed to the smooth functioning of our communication processes.

I would like to express my appreciation for the outstanding efforts of Homeland Language Services during conference times. The team has been working tirelessly to ensure that our district has access to interpreters for virtual conferences, thereby facilitating effective and accessible communication between educators and parents,” – Ismael Gonzalez, Language Services Coordinator at Reynolds School District.

Given this feedback, the Reynolds School District highly recommends Homeland Language Services for their professionalism, efficiency, and dedication to facilitating effective communication. They endorse Homeland Language Services as a reliable and high-quality provider of language interpretation services for any organization seeking to improve language access.

Homeland Language Services is honored to receive such positive feedback from the Reynolds School District and remains committed to delivering top-notch language interpretation services to clients across various sectors.

Blog
, ,

The Vital Role of Qualified Interpreters: Why Child Interpreters May Not Be the Best Choice

In our modern world, language barriers can create a lot of obstacles, particularly in critical situations such as healthcare, legal proceedings, and educational settings. At Homeland Language Services, we recognize the significance of effective communication. Although it may seem easier for a child to interpret for their family, there are crucial reasons why qualified interpreters should be engaged in such scenarios.

The Pitfalls of Relying on Child Interpreters:

  1. 1. Incomplete Understanding of Complex Terminology.
    Language, especially in specialized fields like law or medicine, often involves intricate terminology that may be challenging for adults to comprehend, let alone children. Qualified interpreters possess the necessary linguistic skills and knowledge of industry-specific jargon to ensure accurate communication.
  2. 2. Lack of Objectivity and Neutrality.
    Professional interpreters are trained to maintain objectivity and neutrality during the interpretation process. In family dynamics, a child may inadvertently introduce personal biases or emotions into the interpretation, potentially leading to miscommunication or misunderstandings.
  3. 3. Legal Implications.
    In legal settings, the consequences of inaccurate interpretation can be severe. Child interpreters may not fully grasp the legal complexities involved, jeopardizing the rights and well-being of family members. It is essential to rely on qualified interpreters who understand the legal nuances and uphold ethical standards.
  4. 4. Emotional Burden on the Child.
    Serving as an interpreter for one’s family can place an emotional burden on a child. They may be exposed to sensitive or distressing information, impacting their mental well-being. Professional interpreters are trained to handle such situations with empathy and maintain the emotional distance required for effective communication.

The Importance of Qualified Interpreters:

  1. 1. Accurate and Culturally Competent Communication.
    Qualified interpreters bring linguistic proficiency and cultural competence to the table. They ensure that messages are accurately conveyed, taking into account cultural nuances that may be crucial in understanding the context.
  2. 2. Confidentiality and Ethical Standards.
    Professional interpreters adhere to strict confidentiality and ethical standards, safeguarding the privacy and rights of all parties involved. This is particularly important in situations where sensitive information is being shared.
  3. 3. Specialized Knowledge of Industry-Specific Settings.
    In healthcare, legal, or educational settings, qualified interpreters possess the specialized knowledge required for effective communication. This ensures that critical information is accurately relayed without the risk of misunderstandings.

It may be tempting to involve children in interpreting tasks for the sake of convenience and familial trust. However, the potential dangers and limitations of such an approach are far greater than any benefits. At Homeland Language Services, we firmly believe in the importance of engaging qualified interpreters to ensure seamless and accurate communication, especially in critical situations where language barriers could compromise an individual’s well-being and rights.

Blog
, ,

Exploring Connections and Creating Memories: Homeland Language Services at VIB Network in San Diego!

The vibrant city of San Diego played host to an unforgettable experience for Homeland Language Services, courtesy of our President & Co-founder, Luis Lanazca, and our Accounting Director, Aryil Botich. Their attendance at the VIB Network Conference and Exhibition wasn’t just a professional engagement; it was a journey of discovery and connection. 🌟

A Glimpse into the Event:

From insightful sessions to dynamic exhibitions, our team had the chance to immerse themselves in the latest trends and innovations in the language services industry. Luis and Aryil didn’t just attend; they made waves, leaving a lasting impression on the VIB Network and forging connections that will resonate in our work for years to come.

Gratitude and Connection:

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who stopped by our booth. Your visit wasn’t just a gesture; it was an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and lay the groundwork for exciting future collaborations. Each interaction was a building block in our collective journey toward a brighter future in language services.

Building Bridges for Tomorrow:

The VIB Network event served as a platform for more than just business transactions. It was about building bridges, bridges that connect us, foster collaboration, and pave the way for a stronger and more interconnected language services landscape. We believe in the power of connections, and VIB Network provided the perfect backdrop for this belief to flourish.

If you had the chance to be part of this enriching experience, share your thoughts! Leave a comment under this post, and let’s continue the dialogue. Your insights and reflections are an integral part of our journey.

As we reflect on our time at VIB Network in San Diego, we’re energized by the connections made and inspired by the possibilities ahead. Here’s to forging new paths, creating lasting memories, and shaping the future of language services together!

best certified interpreter services, Best Document Language Translation Services near me, Blog
,

Virtual Interpreters‘ Symposium highlights

On October 7th the organization Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta helped the Interpreter’s Virtual Symposium 2023. We were proud to support this special educational event for interpreters. One of our company goals is to enrich the knowledge of interpreters to provide the best quality services. The aim is one and only – to make communication easier in the whole world 🌎❤️

We were happy to reward our best interpreters with tickets for the Symposium – to refresh and discover something new for their profession 🤓

Important insights

There was a lot of interesting and useful information from each speaker at the Symposium. We want to share some vital insights we got at this education event. Michael Berrospi, Compliance & Training Manager, gathered some ideas to help you understand the valuable role you have as an interpreter. The reason why our clients provide this service and why our non-English speaking community needs us.

Why is the role of the interpreter so important?

  • Cancer patients are meant to receive accurate information about their disease, treatment, and ongoing care with their PCP and get up-to-date information in the amount of detail they want.

  • Patients are meant to fully understand their diagnosis to make an informed decision about their treatment.

  • Believing in a supreme being, in miracles, gives people the will to live, to get over, and to keep fighting. We must respect that as part of their culture, beliefs, and language. If a person wants to believe he is a bird, then that is fine if it works for them.

  • The social consequences of mental health and substance abuse problems are much greater than generally appreciated, quite large, and costly. It is estimated that at least a third of the adult population experiences some impairment due to behavioral problems such as anxiety disorder, alcohol dependence, and affective disorders.

  • Advocacy is the criteria to identify, prevent, and reduce discrimination. Nobody should be subject to any mistreatment, abuse, or segregation. Generally, we are subject to rules and regulations from our clients in terms of our intervention and it is your duty to find a good balance between overstepping any circumstances and overlooking any abuse.

  • Interpreters are the way to create an inclusive environment, tearing down any barriers that may leave anyone out. We are the bridge and reduce the unreal distance between a person and the benefits or services they are entitled to and we help eliminate any cultural, social, economic, and language gaps.

 

Blog
, ,

World English Language Day: Insights from James Jones, Vice-President of Sales at Homeland Language Services

On the occasion of World English Language Day, Homeland Language Services is thrilled to bring you a special message from our Vice President, James Jones. This global celebration is a perfect backdrop for us to dive into the role of language services in promoting inclusive communication worldwide.

We asked James: What language means to you?

”We are a diverse company of employees here at Homeland Language Services. This gives us the ability to work with international communities daily.

Language is the bridge that connects us. Even though we speak many different languages, we can communicate together through common use of the English Language and also, when needed, through translation and interpreting.

Language is the way we can share our joys, successes, sorrows, pains, and disappointments, across Time Zones and Countries, Language brings us together.

We Thank You for being a part of our growing success here at Homeland Language Services. We Appreciate Your Interest, Partnerships, and Ongoing Support.

On World English Language Day we want to say how much your Communication means to Us and I Would Like to Thank You for Every One of our Media Followers.”

Homeland Language Services celebrates the profound impact of language in connecting people, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting understanding on a global scale.

Blog
, ,

Remote work: from work-life balance to global opportunities

By Pablo Flores, our new Spanish-English interpreter.

🚀 Remote work has gifted me the freedom to design my workday around my life rather than the other way around. No longer bound by strict work hours, I can achieve a healthier work-life balance, allowing me to spend more quality time with my loved ones and engage in personal interests. This newfound flexibility has increased my productivity and overall job satisfaction.

🌍 Gone are the days when location was a determining factor for professional growth. Remote work has enabled me to collaborate seamlessly with individuals from all around the globe, broadening my network and exposing me to diverse perspectives and ideas. This international exposure has enriched my professional journey and opened doors to exciting opportunities.

💻 Remote work pushed me to embrace technology and adapt to innovative tools and platforms. I have witnessed how technology can enhance efficiency and streamline workflows. Embracing these digital tools has not only improved my performance but also enriched my skill set.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 As a parent, remote work has been a game-changer. Being present for my family during important moments and milestones has been incredibly fulfilling. I can actively participate in my daughter’s life without sacrificing my professional aspirations. It’s a true blessing to witness both my family and career flourish together.

🌟 Surprisingly, remote work has sharpened my focus and boosted my productivity. With fewer distractions, I can delve into tasks with greater concentration, allowing me to produce higher-quality work in less time. Additionally, the ability to create a personalized workspace has enhanced my overall creativity and output.

🤝 As I collaborate with diverse talents across the globe, I’ve discovered the strength of remote teams. Although physically separated, our collective dedication and communication skills foster a cohesive and supportive work environment. We may be miles apart, but we’re connected by our shared passion for excellence.

Remote work has been an empowering journey, redefining my approach to work and life. The flexibility, global connectivity, and improved work-life balance have allowed me to become the best version of myself, both personally and professionally.
I am eager to continue this voyage, embracing the possibilities that remote work offers and contributing to a world where geography is no longer a barrier to success.

I am immensely grateful to Homeland Language Services for opening the door to remote working and transforming my professional journey.

Blog
, , ,