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
Know Your Rights Workshops (online & in-person)
Bilingual Wellness Support Groups
For more information, please call or text Annie Jarvis at (331) 442-6358 or email ajarvis@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 the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus.
US Citizenship Classes
Ready to become a U.S. citizen? YWCA Elgin offers free, expert-led citizenship classes designed to help you prepare for your naturalization interview and test. Our supportive environment and comprehensive curriculum give you the knowledge and confidence to succeed!
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!
Bilingual Wellness Support Group
Welcome to our Monthly Bilingual Workshops! If you're seeking a supportive space to connect with others, reduce stress, and embrace wellness, you've come to the right place. Our workshops are designed to foster honest conversations and self-care, offering practical techniques to release stress, opportunities to build meaningful connections, and a safe environment to unwind. Join us on this journey toward greater wellness and personal growth—we can’t wait to welcome you!
Upcoming Wellness Support Group
