Purpose:

The purpose of Ogden’s Citizenship PATH pilot program is to aid qualified residents of Weber County in becoming Naturalized U.S. Citizens by removing barriers that hinder them from obtaining citizenship status and become active civic members of the community.   

Process:

Participants of the program will engage in a comprehensive Citizenship Preparation class, enriched with supplementary activities. Below is a list of potential collaborative opportunities for community partners to work together with Ogden City. 

• Citizenship Preparation Class – Weber County Library System will host a comprehensive Citizenship Preparation class and provide study materials. 
• Civic Duty Education
  • Elected Leaders Night – Local and State elected leaders will speak to participants about their civic duties and the importance of their participation. 
  • Voting Experience – Participants will learn about Utah voting laws, how to register to vote, and how to exercise their right to vote.
  • Safety Night – Participants will meet the Police and Fire Chiefs and learn about services offered by these departments. 
  • Judges Night -  A judge will talk to participants about jury duty.  
• Legal Services – Catholic Community Services will assist participants with the completion of the N-400 form. 
• Literacy program – My Hometown will provide volunteers to read with the kids so that participants can focus on the class without distractions. 
• Microgrant – Grant funds are available to participants to cover the cost of the N-400 Citizenship Application. 

Qualifications:

To apply for the program, participants will need to:

1. Meet the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Eligibility requirements to become a U.S. Citizen (For detailed information and exceptions, including special provisions for those who have served in the U.S. military, please see Naturalization through Military Service. Please use our Naturalization Eligibility Tool in the Citizenship Resource Center for additional information.) Some of these requirements will be taught during the class term:
   1. Be at least 18 years of age at the time application is submitted; 
   2. Have been a lawful permanent resident for the past three or five years (depending on which naturalization category the applicant is applying under);
   3. Have continuous residence and physical presence in the United States;
   4. Be able to read, write, and speak basic English; 
   5. Demonstrate good moral character; 
   6. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
   7. Demonstrate a loyalty to the principles of the U.S. constitution; and 
   8. Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.
2. Be willing to fulfill the class expectations:
   1. Attend and participate in a minimum of 75% of classes and activities; 
   2. Commit to completing 20 hours of civic volunteer work; and 
   3. Complete all USCIS documents by the end of the class term.