Citizenship & Immigration Services
YWCA Elgin offers Citizenship and Immigration Services in Spanish and English.
Services Include:
Assistance with Naturalization, DACA Renewal, Green Cards (initial application and renewals), and Asylum applications.
Free 6-week U.S. Citizenship Courses
Assistance in preparing for the U.S. Citizenship interview
Immigration Attorneys on Staff
Naturalization (N400 applications) and DACA Renewal scholarships for those who qualify
Bilingual Wellness Support Groups
For more information, please call or text Ana Rojas Ortega at (331) 442-6358 or email arojasortega@ywcaelgin.org.
These programs and services have been made possible by grants awarded by the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, the Illinois Department of Human Services, the New American Initiative, and Illinois Access to Justice.
U.S. Citizenship Classes – Free at YWCA Elgin
Ready to take the next step toward U.S. citizenship? Join our free 6-week citizenship class.
Know Your Rights
The YWCA Elgin is proud to offer Know Your Rights training to empower our community. These trainings are designed to educate individuals about their rights when interacting with Immigration authorities, I.C.E., or the Police.
Our training sessions cover essential topics such as how to identify officer badges and understand their authority, the difference between judicial and immigration warrants, practical steps to prepare yourself for encounters with law enforcement, and more critical insights to ensure you are informed and protected.
At the YWCA Elgin, we are committed to staying up-to-date with changes in the law and will continuously update our training materials. We will also keep the community informed about any new legislation that may impact their rights.
These workshops are a part of our mission to support and empower individuals in our community through education and advocacy. Stay informed and prepared.
YWCA Elgin Action Plan: Preparedness and Protection
At YWCA Elgin, we prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals and families in our community. Our mission is to ensure that everyone is informed, prepared, and empowered to protect their rights and care for their loved ones in times of emergency.
An emergency can happen unexpectedly. It’s essential to plan ahead and ensure you and your family are ready. Our action plan and How to Prepare videos help you gather and organize critical information so you can quickly take the necessary steps during difficult times. Our action plan provides a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare. It includes biographical information, emergency contacts, legal documents, medical records, and more.
Know Your Rights Informational Videos
If you're unable to attend a YWCA Elgin Know Your Rights Workshop, you can watch our instructional videos below to learn the essentials. These videos will be updated whenever laws change.
1-27-25 Update - 3:50 minute mark, discussing Fourth Amendment and Sensitive Locations
Save this playlist and come back often so you stay up to date with the latest information.
1-27-25 Actualización - marca del minuto 3:55, debate sobre la Cuarta Enmienda y las ubicaciones sensibles
Guarda esta lista de reproducción y vuelve a menudo para estar al día de la información más reciente.
The YWCA Elgin Workplace Know Your Rights for Managers/Owners manual found above provides essential guidance for employers and managers regarding workplace rights, particularly concerning immigration laws, employee protections, and interactions with law enforcement agencies like ICE.
Support the YWCA Elgin in providing essential Know Your Rights information and immigration services by making a donation today! Your contribution makes a difference!
A New Path — A Guide for Those Facing Deportation
If you or someone you care about is at risk of deportation to Mexico or Central America, “A New Path” can help you navigate this difficult time with information, planning guidance, and support resources. Created by the Education Justice Project, this guide provides critical tools to understand your rights, prepare for possible deportation, and rebuild life in your home country whether that’s familiar territory or somewhere you’ve never known well.
What You’ll Find Inside
Know your rights. Information on what to expect in encounters with immigration enforcement, and the removal process.
Planning ahead. Practical advice on preparing for possible deportation — from securing documents and IDs, to understanding financial, legal, and logistical matters.
Support for return. Guidance for life after deportation: obtaining identification, finding housing or work, getting health care, understanding education and employment options, and rebuilding stability.
Community & resources. Contacts and referrals for legal aid, social services, and community organizations — both in the U.S. and in home countries — to help you find concrete support.
Emotional support & healing. Chapters address mental health, self-care, rebuilding relationships, and managing the emotional challenges of deportation and transition.
Note: While this guide aims to provide helpful and up-to-date resources, the world changes quickly. Information — especially about services, policies, or local support — may shift over time.