Fostering Skills and Knowledge
We provide the guidance and resources our community needs to grow and create successful lives. Our dedicated team is here to support and guide you in your journey; whether you are learning English or honing your computer skills, we are here to help!
We Catalyze Economic Mobility
Educational programs include computer classes, financial literacy workshops, English classes (ESOL), and onsite certification courses. Our Digital Equity Programs provide community members with basic to advanced computer skills to be successful in the modern workforce. We promote healthy financial habits through financial literacy workshops, where community members can gain valuable insights into managing finances, budgeting, saving, and investing for the future. We also provide free, in-person English classes to help residents reach their professional goals by improving their English for their chosen field or industry. Empower yourself with our certification programs and take a step closer to achieving financial independence.
Contextualized ESOL
Our free, in person English (ESOL) classes help improve English language proficiency. La Colaborativa’s English classes are designed to empower our neighbors with the skills needed to engage and advocate in the community. Students will finish the course with a basic understanding of English grammar and a widened English vocabulary, preparing them for the current job market. Community members need a referral from the Economic Development Department to participate in the ESOL program. For information about more advanced English classes, please contact the Education Manager.
Financial Literacy
La Colaborativa actively fosters healthy financial habits through our Financial Literacy Workshops. In collaboration with community partners such as Eastern Bank and Bank of America, we host monthly workshops focused on basic financial well-being. Open to all community members, these workshops delve into crucial topics such as credit building, budgeting, financial planning, and understanding loans.
Technology & Digital Equity
Come use our state-of-the-art computer lab during the day or attend one of our Digital Literacy Workshops and learn more about your own technology. Our Digital Navigators are ready to assist community members with any technological challenges they face. Our Digital Literacy Workshops tackle specific topics and themes expanding knowledge of the digital world. Intermediate Computer Classes are designed to equip community members with the essential technology skills necessary to research, apply for, and excel in various job opportunities in today’s job market. In addition, our new advanced computer classes prepare community members for jobs in the tech field. We offer courses Front End Web Development, UI/UX Design and Logistics and Inventory Management.
Explore Youth Jobs
Citizenship & Immigration
We empower immigrants in our community to achieve economic stability and security in their new country. La Colaborativa offers support with understanding immigrant rights, U.S. citizenship classes, and assistance in obtaining a driver’s license. These workshops empower individuals to achieve economic stability and security in a dignified manner. Citizenship classes enroll new students every three months, with each class lasting 12 to 14 weeks. All of our citizenship and immigration services are provided at no cost.
Path to Citizenship
Determine Eligibility
Our team works with you to determine your immigration case status and discover next steps on your path to citizenship.
Apply for Citizenship
To apply for U.S. Citizenship, our team guides you through submitting the Form N-400 and other documents needed for this process.
Complete Biometrics Appointment
The government confirms your identify by running the required background and security checks.
Attend the Interview
During your naturalization interview, a USCIS officer asks you questions about your application and background.
Pass Civic and English Test in the Interview
During your interview, you will take a naturalization test. This test consists of two parts: an English and a civics exam. Some applicants may qualify for an exemption.
Oath Ceremony
The naturalization ceremony is a formal occasion where you and other citizen applicants affirm your commitment to becoming an American citizen.
Citizenship Pathways
La Colaborativa assists community members from all backgrounds in becoming active citizens including through our Citizenship Pathways program. We provide courses for Chelsea residents that prepare individuals who are seeking to become citizens of the United States. Our classes are designed to prepare students for both the oral and written portions of the naturalization exam. Through our partnership with MIRA Coalition, students get assistance when they are ready to apply for the naturalization exam.
Classes run for 10 weeks, with each session lasting 2 hours per week. To ensure accessibility, we have established a laptop lending program for interested residents who require access to a laptop for participation. The curriculum includes coverage of 129 civics and history questions that may appear on the exam.
We encourage civic engagement of all community members regardless of immigration status and provides class participants with the skills they need to become active citizens. Students with limited English proficiency will be given the opportunity to first attend our ESOL classes to prepare for the naturalization process. Courses are open to eligible Chelsea residents.
Learn English with La Colaborativa
