About the Goethe-Zentrum Atlanta
Position
Goethe-Zentrum Atlanta is the preeminent non-profit source for German language instruction, heritage, and cultural exposure in the southeastern United States. We deliver multi-level, certified language courses and mission-centric programs that foster communication, education, collaboration, and cultural exchange for passionate learners for whom German is not their first language and natives of German-speaking countries and people residing in the Southeastern United States interested in or affiliated with Germany or Europe through heritage, career, or personal experiences. We provide experiences to enhance learning and the development of personal and professional relationships. Unlike more costly college and University environments, commercial language centers, exclusive online services, or networking groups, we combine immersive classroom and online learning, as well as integrated cultural programs, at a significant financial value, and resulting in enriched learning opportunities, new relationships, and a greater sense of community.
Mission
To deliver language courses and programs that foster communication, education, collaboration, and cultural exchange for passionate learners for whom German is not their first language, natives of German-speaking countries, and people residing in the southeastern United States interested in or affiliated with Germany or Europe through heritage, career, or personal experience.
Vision
To provide experiences to enhance learning and the development of personal and professional relationships by combining immersive classroom and online learning, as well as integrated cultural programs to enrich learning opportunities, build relationships and create a greater sense of community.
History of the Goethe-Zentrum Atlanta
Our organization was established over 40 years ago as a branch of Germany’s Goethe Institut, the premier German culture and language instructional organization whose global policy is to foster Germany’s relationships with other countries. While the Goethe Institut has withdrawn its monetary support from many of its branches in the United States due to internal budgetary considerations, the Atlanta office remains an official partner of the Institut and continues the mission as an American nonprofit organization. Today, the Goethe-Zentrum Atlanta is the most successful fully privatized nonprofit German Cultural Center in North America. As such, it holds “best practices” status as a former Goethe Institut.
The Goethe-Zentrum Atlanta has not just maintained, but has enhanced its services while reducing overhead costs and programming expenses. To build support, we have established close ties with many community nonprofit cultural organizations, European consulates, and local businesses.
