Sturgis – Citizenship preparatory course

Twenty-two Sturgis residents are a step closer to becoming U.S. citizens after completing a two-month class through Centro Vida.

A ceremony was held June 11 to acknowledge successful completion of a weekly citizenship preparatory course. Group members are now better prepared for the 100-question assessment required as part of the U.S. citizenship process, according to Centro Vida’s Nancy Barajas.

She explained that anyone holding a Green Card for five years or more is eligible to apply for citizenship. Barajas said extensive preparation for the citizenship test is critical, which is where the Centro Vida-led program provided a valuable resource.

The most-recent session attracted 24 people, 10 more than what turned out for Centro Vida’s inaugural preparation course in 2023. Barajas said another course will start again in the fall, led once again by local volunteer Karla Arvizo. Classes are held at Centro Vida offices in the Sturgis Central Commons.

Based in Sturgis, Centro Vida is a 501(c)(3) charity organization servicing the county’s Hispanic population.