In what should be applauded as an example of how collaboration works between organizations and volunteers, the You, Me, We= Oakley Citizenship Drive was a complete success as they assisted eligible permanent residents in completing their N-400 Applications on Saturday, May 4.
“It’s amazing how many volunteers from all over the Bay Area are here to volunteer and support them,” said Oakley Councilwoman Diane Burgis. “It’s really cool to see the relief and happiness on their faces as they begin the process to citizenship.”
Gaby Baños Galvan, Program Coordinator for You, Me, We = Oakley, explained how the event took two months of preparation and coordination to ensure the drive was a success and ran smoothly. She also applauded the volunteerism efforts of many. She stated they set up 22-appointments prior to the event, but they were accepting walk in appointments.
“I am happy that we have a lot of volunteers and people are taking that step towards citizenship. By being here today, they are taking that first step,” said Baños-Galván.
According to Baños-Galván, 22-appointments were scheduled prior to the event, but they were accepting walk in appointments.
The requirements to participate in the naturalization process was that a a person must have 1) been a legal permanent resident for at least 5 years or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen, 2) have demonstrated good moral conduct and 3) pay a $680 fee.
This event is being sponsored in partnership by You, Me, We Oakley!, Contra Costa Interfaith Supporting community Organization (CCISCO) and the International Institute of the Bay Area (IIBA).
To learn more about the You, Me, We Oakley! Program contact Gaby Baños-Galván at [email protected] or 925-625-7011. You may also visit the You, Me, We = Oakley website for more information.
