Nonprofit Week 2025: League of Women Voters – Citizenship Classes

Volunteers Susanna Gimson and Alicia Boyett represent the League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to informing and empowering voters through candidate interviews, position publications and “Voting 101” classes for new voters.

A key initiative is their free Citizenship Classes, taught by volunteers like Boyett, an immigrant herself, which prepare lawful permanent residents for naturalization. These classes are challenging, covering 100 civics/history questions and a comprehensive 20-page application, with students often facing language and transportation barriers.

The program emphasizes moral character and students undergo vetting by Homeland Security and the FBI. Held year-round at the Doyle Community Center, the program has successfully graduated over 50 people without a single failure on the citizenship exam.

The League actively advocates against voter suppression and aims to boost low voter turnout rates in Texas, promoting the privilege and importance of voting as a fundamental aspect of democracy.

The Hill Country chapter serves six counties and welcomes all individuals, regardless of age or gender, despite its origins in the women’s suffrage movement. They accept donations directly or via the Doyle Center to support the citizenship program.

For more information about the League of Women Voters citizenship classes, contact the organization through the Doyle Community Center.