Celebrating Welcoming Week & Citizenship Day

As part of our Community Impact Services programming, the YMCA has helped immigrants who have come to the United States study and pass the U.S. Citizenship test to become proud members of our country. Learn more about their stories below presented in partnership with National Partnership for New Americans.

When Deicy Patricia Larrota Sanchez came to the United States from Colombia in 2017, learning English and adjusting to a new culture were among her biggest challenges. As her permanent residency approached its expiration, she knew it was time to begin her journey toward U.S. citizenship, but fear and self-doubt made her question whether she could succeed.

Through the YMCA’s Civics Education Program, Deicy gained the knowledge, practice, and confidence she needed. Although her first interview did not go as planned, she refused to give up. She returned for a second interview, persevered through her nerves, and successfully passed.

Now, Deicy is looking forward to her naturalization ceremony and becoming a U.S. citizen. Her journey is a powerful reminder: don’t let fear stop you from taking the first step. With support and determination, you are capable of achieving your goals.

When Maria Romero came to the United States from Mexico in 2016, she arrived with mixed emotions but hope for new opportunities. Adjusting to life in Houston was not always easy. Without a car, transportation was challenging, and learning English became one of her biggest obstacles.

Maria began her citizenship journey with determination, but the process took nearly two years. Through the YMCA’s Civics Education Program, she found the support, materials, and confidence she needed to keep moving forward. She attended classes consistently, practiced at home, and worked on both her English and interview skills.

After completing her interview and taking the Oath of Allegiance, Maria officially became a U.S. citizen. She describes the experience as one filled with confidence, security, tranquility, and learning.

Today, Maria is grateful for the support she received and hopes her story encourages others to remain consistent and not give up. Her journey shows that even when the process takes time, every step is part of the journey toward achieving your goal.

When Margarita Gaspar came to the United States from Mexico at a young age, she arrived feeling nervous and afraid. She had limited English skills and had not had the opportunity to attend school, making the thought of becoming a U.S. citizen feel overwhelming.

Margarita pursued citizenship because she wanted the security of being a U.S. citizen and hoped to eventually petition for her parents. Despite her responsibilities, she dedicated herself to studying and building the English, reading, and writing skills she needed.

Through the YMCA’s Civics Education Program, Margarita gained the knowledge and confidence to prepare for her interview. Although she was extremely nervous and faced a difficult interview, she persevered and received the news that she had passed.

Now a proud U.S. citizen, Margarita describes it as “the best thing that has happened to me.” She hopes her story encourages others not to let fear hold them back and recommends the YMCA program to anyone preparing for citizenship.

Elizes Chavez came to the United States from Mexico in May 2007, leaving behind her older siblings, friends, and the life she knew. After spending much of her life between Mexico and the United States, she began to see the U.S. as her home and knew she wanted to make that commitment by becoming a citizen.

Elizes applied for citizenship in October and began preparing for her interview. Through the YMCA’s Civics Education Program, she attended classes and discovered a deeper understanding of U.S. history and the meaning behind the questions she would be asked.

When Elize completed her interview in June, she was thrilled to hear the words, “Congratulations, you passed!” Now, as she prepares for her citizenship ceremony, Elisa reflects on how becoming a citizen has changed her perspective and given her a stronger sense of responsibility and belonging.

Her advice to other permanent residents is simple: take the step toward citizenship. Even if you have doubts, learning and preparing can help you move forward with confidence.

A Naing Aung arrived in the United States in 2009 with a physical disability and undiagnosed mental health needs. For years, he experienced chronic homelessness and struggled to consistently engage in treatment. In 2019, after losing his housing and experiencing a significant decline in his stability, Aung reconnected with the YMCA for support.

YMCA staff worked with Aung to develop an individualized service plan focused on eight goals, including healthcare, medication management, benefits, housing, citizenship, and SSI. Through persistent, trauma-informed advocacy and collaboration with Harris Health and The Harris Center, Aung re-engaged in mental health treatment and demonstrated remarkable progress. Beginning October 30, 2019, he consistently attended his mental health appointments and improved his medication management.

The YMCA also advocated for Aung’s citizenship pathway. His psychiatrist completed the N-648 Medical Certification for Disability Exception, recognizing his sustained treatment progress and the importance of citizenship to his stability and future. Aung enrolled in the YMCA’s civics class and received assistance from the YMCA Immigration Department in navigating his citizenship process. Despite setbacks caused by his health challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic, YMCA staff continued advocating on his behalf, including requesting a Congressional inquiry to help move his case forward.

On March 24, 2021, Aung completed his citizenship interview and was approved for U.S. citizenship. His journey demonstrates the transformative impact of sustained, client-centered support and collaboration among YMCA departments, healthcare providers, government partners, and community organizations. Aung successfully achieved six of his eight goals, including securing his own apartment and obtaining citizenship.

Luis Alarcon Najera came to the United States from Mexico in 2012 for work. After several years as a permanent resident, he decided it was time to pursue citizenship, hoping for greater stability, freedom to travel, and new opportunities.

Through the YMCA’s Civics Education Program, Luis gained the confidence and preparation he needed for his interview. The online classes were especially helpful, allowing him to study from home while practicing the English and civics questions he would face.

After months of waiting, Luis successfully completed his interview and became a U.S. citizen. His advice to others is simple: don’t wait and apply when you are eligible and take advantage of the resources available to help you succeed.

Edmond came to the United States from Congo nearly a decade ago. He was inspired to become a U.S. citizen by the freedom to travel and the opportunity to build a future with greater independence. Becoming a citizen was an important accomplishment for Edmond and something he was proud to achieve.

As he prepared for his citizenship interview, Edmond felt nervous about the test and what to expect. Through the YMCA’s Civics Education Program, he gained the knowledge and confidence he needed to feel prepared. He especially appreciated the supportive environment and step-by-step approach, which made the process easier and more comfortable.

His naturalization ceremony was even more meaningful because he celebrated with his family, including his mother and brother, who also participated in the YMCA program. They took the Oath of Allegiance together and later celebrated with family and friends.

Today, Edmond looks forward to traveling, returning to Africa and visiting Paris at the top of his list. His advice to others preparing for citizenship is simple: “Confidence is key.” He encourages others to take advantage of the YMCA’s classes and the support they provide throughout the citizenship journey.