One in ten Washingtonians is Latino, and the majority are immigrants; many have fled violence at home, and all are seeking better opportunities. Whether they have well-established roots in the US or are newly arrived, they face a host of challenges, including limited English skills, unstable employment and housing, and low wages. So CARECEN provides a one-stop shop where Latino immigrants can access the tools and resources they need to lead secure and productive lives. Direct legal services and consultations (offered at low or no cost) allow them to resolve their immigration status, secure work authorization, and gain permanent residency. The next step is citizenship, and CARECEN’s citizenship coursework (including mock interviews and ESL tutoring), voter education, and civic engagement activities prepare Latinos to fully engage in civil society. Housing counseling promotes safe and stable homes for all through education on tenant rights, foreclosure prevention, and financial literacy. And an after-school youth program prepares the next generation to become the leaders of tomorrow. Together, these programs strengthen our Latino community … and our society.
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