Helping immigrants prepare for citizenship through community support
During National Volunteer Month, Latinos of CT spotlights a group making a real difference: the Citizenship Coalition. This nonprofit organization offers free, virtual tutoring for immigrants preparing for the U.S. citizenship interview and naturalization test.
Since launching in June 2024, the Coalition has supported more than 250 future citizens, hosted over 1,000 tutoring sessions and celebrated more than 100 new Americans. Many more are on track for 2026.
Founder Mark Kukis started the Coalition to make support easier to access. “I founded Citizenship Coalition mainly to help immigrants get ready for the USCIS, which can be really intimidating,” Kukis said. “Online tutoring lets people study when it fits their lives.”
But it’s not just about the test. Volunteers are both tutors and cheerleaders, helping applicants feel confident for one of the biggest moments of their lives.
“It connects them to someone who is there for them, a buddy and a cheerleader who is eager to see them succeed and glad they are making America their new home.”
The organization is entirely powered by volunteers and offers flexible opportunities that fit busy schedules. No prior experience is needed, and training is provided. Kukis hopes this type of service becomes more common. “We want supporting a citizenship applicant to become as normal as helping at a food bank,” he said.
Recent changes to the U.S. citizenship test make preparation even more important. For applications filed on or after Oct. 20, 2025, applicants need to answer at least 12 out of 20 civics questions correctly from a pool of 128. A tutor can make all the difference. “The best strategy for success is to get a tutor,” Kukis said.
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Volunteers build stronger communities
The journey to citizenship isn’t always easy, but support makes a world of difference. Organizations like the Citizenship Coalition don’t just help people study; they help build a sense of belonging at a turning point in life.
National Volunteer Month is a reminder that giving back comes in many forms. Whether you help someone study, offer a word of encouragement or simply show up, your time matters and helps build a more welcoming community for everyone.
To get involved or learn more, visit citizenshipcoalition.org and help someone take the next step toward becoming an American citizen.
Sources:
(Citizenship Coalition) Citizenship Coalition official site