Asian Language Exchange & Social Network (ALESN) is a volunteer-run language and cultural program offering free language classes, culturally specific workshops and discussion groups, and social networking opportunities in New York City.Interested in learning a new language? Ready to improve upon a language you already know? We offer free language classes at both beginner's and intermediate levels in:Cantonese ClassesMandarin Classes Chinese Reading/Writing ClassesJapanese ClassesInterested in Asian culture, history, cuisine, or health/wellness? Our weekly workshops explore everything from: Asian languages outside of our current program offerings Chinese calligraphy Japanese cookingOrigami Life coaching & Mindfulness Tai Chi Jeet Kune Do, Phillippino Martial Arts and various other martial arts systems Looking to meet great individuals that share your passion for learning, to add to your social and professional networks? We also organize monthly social events which are for great networking, developing long-lasting friendships, and learning more about Asian cultures. Past social events that have been wildly successful include our Korean dinner, trip to Mitsuwa (Japanese Mall), picnic in Central Park, karaoke marathon, dimsum (Cantonese-style breakfast), and other awesome social events.So What's the Catch?Believe it or not, there really isn't a catch. But we do hope that by running our program and providing these classes and services absolutely free of charge, that we will be inspiring students to volunteer and give back to the program and/or seek external volunteer opportunities to complete a cyclic giving-back to the program and community model. It's All Free…What Are You Waiting For? Come Join Us Today! Convinced that our program may just be what you were looking for? Please visit us at http://www.alesn.org/ to learn more.