Our Story

Using Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World

The Global Language Network (GLN) is a DC-based 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization whose mission is to use language as a tool to help fix our world.

In 2005, Andrew Brown founded The Global Language Network in his life-long mission of making the world a better place. After seeing a wide range of global issues plaguing communities around the world, Andrew concluded that the one common factor was that there was a fundamental lack of communication between people and that if we could make greater efforts to communicate and understand the other side it would greatly assist in reducing conflict and otherwise assist in solving problems.

Andrew founded GLN to engage the community, share his passion for languages with others and address the growing need for accessible, affordable language education. Andrew realized the power that language has to break down barriers and build communities and the mission he establish with GLN, of “using language as a tool to help fix our world” has been the guiding light for GLN and the inspiration for GLN’s constantly growing network.

While Andrew is the Founder and President of GLN, he credits much of the organization’s growth and success to the many devoted staff, teachers and other volunteers who have contributed and allowed him to build GLN to what it is today.

Forging Connections

Many people wish to solve local, domestic, and global issues but not everyone has the tools. At GLN, we believe that the first and most fundamental tool for solving any issue is communication. GLN provides hundreds of language classes in dozens of languages in order to help adults of all ages gain and improve upon communication skills in a foreign language.

Language offers new perspectives, broadens horizons and enriches lives because it enables individuals to establish invaluable connections around the globe.

Learn a Language Today

Providing Opportunities at a Minimal Cost

GLN is a community where people learn, share and connect. We offer affordable language classes in more than 60 languages, using a communicative approach that builds our learners’ communication skills in an interactive and enjoyable environment.

How are we able to promote language learning in so many languages at a fraction of the market price? We recruit and train native speakers who volunteer their time to teach their language and share their culture with the greater DC community. Through our Teaching Fellowship, we develop our teachers as educators and community leaders.

Creating a Network of Givers

Thanks to the support of thousands of members, GLN has been training and empowering individuals to teach classes in their native language. GLN continues to recruit volunteers with the highest potential for leadership to give their time and expertise in helping grow and build the organization.

GLN envisions a peaceful and cooperative world where individuals can both value their own heritage while also respecting, embracing, and learning from those who are different from them. Our vision is based on the premise that language is a fundamental tool that unlocks human potential and empowers people to transcend cultural barriers and make a positive impact in a changing global society.

Our Mission in Action: The Global Giver Fellowship

Do you have something big to give back to society? How are you using your GLN language education to change the world?

If you are presently using, or want to use, your GLN language education to give back to society, be sure to apply for GLN’s Global Giver Fellowship.

A select group of individuals will be chosen to receive a semester-long language learning fellowship from GLN and, on a case by case basis, funding to support your cause.

Examples include using your GLN language class to help local immigrants, volunteer abroad, or participate in any other aid or development project. Apply today!

Become a Global Giver