They are ready to become Citizens! Can you help?

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In 2016, the United States resettled 78,761 refugees from Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Afghanistan, Syrian Rep., DR Congo, Eritrea, Iraq, and Myanmar. At the height of refugee resettlement in 2016, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee resettled over 600 refugees in Milwaukee and Sheboygan.

5 years later, these individuals are now eligible to apply for Citizenship! Becoming a U.S. citizen is a big dream for many refugees or immigrants as becoming an American provides many opportunities that they otherwise would not have.

Everyone has their own reasons for wanting to become a U.S. citizen, such as:

• Voting
• Passing their citizenship onto their children
• Running for most public offices
• Traveling a United States passport
• Applying for a wider range of family members to join them in the United States

Working toward citizenship is an important goal; however, it can be tough! With the help of our volunteers, we can create a safe learning space for refugees and immigrants to prepare for and pass the Citizenship test. Sessions are one-on-one or small groups and held virtually at times that work best for all participants.

You do not need to be a lawyer or a history professor to help! We will provide all the training, but a basic knowledge and interest in American history is helpful.

As a volunteer, you will work with learners to memorize 100 Questions about US history and civics, to respond to questions about information & vocabulary on the application, and pass the reading and writing requirement. Learn more about the citizenship application process by clicking below!

Please note: Due to the time it takes to complete training and to find a learner who is a good match, this is not a quick-start opportunity, and we generally ask for a 6-month minimum commitment.

Skills/ Experience

• Likes to connect with others
• Is compassionate and culturally sensitive
• Feels comfortable working with individuals with varying levels of English
• Can work independently; however, also are willing to ask questions, as needed.
• Think on their feet and creatively problem solve as the needs of the learner changes
• Must be comfortable communicating in English- English speakers of all levels are welcomed and encouraged to apply
• No previous experience is necessary; training is provided. Teaching, tutoring, cross-cultural experiences or additional language skills are a plus
• Must be 18 years old to volunteer

Technology

• Have access to a computer/tablet/phone with a webcam feature and reliable internet
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with Zoom, WhatsApp or FaceTime

Time Commitment

• 1-2 hours per week; most learners are looking for 45 minutes to 1-hour sessions, once or twice a week
• We work with your schedule- schedules will be determined based on both the learners’ and the tutor’s availability
• A volunteer may work with more than one learner individually, if the volunteer wishes

Training

Volunteers will receive training before being matched and will have ongoing educational opportunities to enhance their teaching techniques and learning activities.

Volunteers receive regular staff support through periodic check ins, monthly newsletters and Volunteer Meet Ups (virtual educational and collaboration time). They also have access to a vast library of instructional material.

The Impact

You will become a big part of someone's else's success story!

All of our classes and programs are free to our clients, and we couldn’t provide the level of service we do without the help of our wonderful volunteers. We believe the connections our volunteers make with their clients are mutually beneficial and our communities are stronger and more vibrant when we build these bonds.

Questions?

Please contact:

Jessica Brandt, jbrandt@ccmke.org