Citizenship Legal Services — Neighborhood Initiative

“My dream of becoming the first U.S citizen in my family would not have come true without CLS’s help. I would fully endorse CLS to anyone in need of support and help to make their dreams come true.”

— Maria Lopez, CLS Client

Citizenship Legal Services is a unique collaborative, offering a continuum of services to help immigrants, living or working in Napa County, become U.S. Citizens who are fully integrated into the larger community. The program brings together critical partners from throughout the Napa County including legal aid providers, family resource centers, foundations and over 100 volunteers. Specific core partners include the Immigration Institute of the Bay Area (IIBA), On The Move: McPherson Family Resource Center, Puertas Abiertas, and Up Valley Family Centers.

Our mission

To build a sustainable, reputable network of naturalization and immigration services in the Napa Valley.

Our Impact

Every year 1,500 individuals receive information about the benefits and requirements for citizenship, including other immigration benefits.

Since 2013:

2,269 people have become US citizens
477 volunteers have been recruited and trained to support the program

Citizenship Legal Services offers the following core services:

Free information to all individuals that are wanting to learn if they qualify to apply and become a U.S. Citizen;
Free civics exam preparation classes for English and Spanish test takers;
Low-cost legal services, by attorneys and accredited representatives, to apply for citizenship and the application fee waiver;

Information and referrals to government agencies local organizations to ensure newcomers gain access to essential information and services;
Trainings to service providers and community leaders who seek to better understand immigrant integration and their clients’ immigration status.
Recruitment, training and supervision of youth leaders, interns and law students who conduct research, teach citizenship classes, provide consultations and assist with legal cases.

How you can help

In these times of uncertainty regarding immigration policy, securing funding for CLS is more urgent than ever. Your gift provides Napa County residents legal support throughout their citizenship journey as well as access to other important legal immigration services. Additionally, consider becoming a volunteer to support our program. To find out how you can get involved, please contact one of our locations.

Volunteer Opportunities

If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact Yadira Chavez at (707) 738-3345 or at yadira@theneighborhoodinitiative.org