City Of Champaign | City Of Champaign website
City Of Champaign | City Of Champaign website
On December 9, 2023, the Equity and Engagement Department collaborated with the New American Welcome Center (NAWC) to conclude their inaugural Citizenship Fast-Track program. This intensive 10-day program catered to community members who were confident in their English skills and aimed to equip them with the necessary knowledge of American history and the skills required to apply for and pass the citizenship exam. On Saturday, the program culminated with mock interviews to allow participants to practice their skills and receive feedback from NAWC staff, City staff, and community volunteers.
The Citizenship Fast-Track program provided an opportunity for individuals seeking citizenship to enhance their understanding of American history and the application process. Participants dedicated themselves to ten days of rigorous learning, honing their English skills, and preparing for the naturalization interview. The program not only offered a comprehensive curriculum but also fostered a supportive environment for participants to gain confidence and refine their interview skills.
"We are proud to have successfully concluded our first Citizenship Fast-Track program," said the Equity and Engagement Department. "This program not only provided valuable knowledge and skills but also empowered individuals in their journey towards citizenship."
The mock interviews conducted on Saturday were a pivotal aspect of the program, allowing participants to put their acquired knowledge and skills into practice. The NAWC staff, City staff, and community volunteers played a crucial role in facilitating these mock interviews and providing valuable feedback to the participants. The feedback received during these sessions will undoubtedly assist participants in further improving their interview performance and increasing their chances of success.
One participant expressed their gratitude for the program, saying, "The Citizenship Fast-Track program has been instrumental in preparing me for the naturalization interview. The mock interviews were particularly helpful as they allowed me to practice in a realistic setting and receive constructive feedback. I feel much more prepared and confident now."
The success of the Citizenship Fast-Track program is a testament to the dedication of the Equity and Engagement Department, the NAWC staff, City staff, and the community volunteers who contributed their time and expertise. By providing a platform for individuals to enhance their English skills, deepen their understanding of American history, and refine their interview techniques, this program has made a significant impact on the journey towards citizenship for many community members.
As the program concluded on Saturday, the participants left with newfound knowledge, improved skills, and increased confidence. The Equity and Engagement Department and the NAWC are already planning to offer future iterations of the Citizenship Fast-Track program to continue supporting individuals in their pursuit of citizenship.
The Equity and Engagement Department encourages community members who are interested in future programs to stay updated through their website and social media channels. With the success of the first Citizenship Fast-Track program, it is clear that these initiatives are invaluable in empowering individuals and promoting a sense of belonging within the community.
For additional details, please follow this link: https://champaignil.gov/2023/12/15/citizenship-fast-track-program/