Mano a Mano Family Resource Center adds staff
In an effort to assist more than double the number of immigrants in obtaining U.S. citizenship, Mano a Mano Family Resource Center has received a federal accreditation and added two staff members to support applicants in Lake County.
Mano a Mano was recently accredited by federal officials to represent clients before the U.S. Board of Immigration Appeals, the highest administrative body for interpreting and applying immigration laws.
Mano a Mano is the only Round Lake area organization to receive the accreditation, and one of only a handful in Lake County.
Mano a Mano’s application for recognition before the board was approved by Department of Homeland Security in August. Mano a Mano already is accredited to represent applicants on immigration issues in the state of Illinois. Common issues include naturalization, inadmissibility, waivers, deferred action for childhood arrivals and adjustment of status
In 2012-13, Mano a Mano helped 50 people to obtain their U.S. citizenship. The goal is to increase outreach activities in 2013-14 to complete 110 applications for citizenship, said Carolina Duque, executive director of Mano a Mano Family Resource Center. Services are offered free.
“We have experienced a high demand of service when we have dedicated more time to contacting potential clients by mail and phone,” Duque said.
“We recently added two staff members; one will be responsible for outreach and the other will be coordinating the citizenship classes.”
Mayra E. Mena, staff member at Mano a Mano, is accredited to represent individuals on behalf of Mano a Mano. Mena has been with Mano a Mano since 2006 and brings experience to the nonprofit sector serving the immigrant community.
She provides Mano a Mano with the knowledge necessary to successfully serve clients as they navigate the legal processes of immigration law.
Andres Cerritos of Andres Cerritos Law Offices will continue as consultant attorney, providing legal screening, consultations, and legal assistance as needed. His practice specializes in naturalization, permanent residency, consular proceedings, removal proceedings, and deferred action.
Cerritos is also a current board member and legal volunteer for Mano a Mano.
People who are interested in applying for citizenship, or who have questions regarding the process, can call (847) 201-1521, email info@mamfrc.org or make an appointment by calling (847) 201-1521.
The Mission of Mano a Mano is to empower immigrant and underserved families of Lake County to become full participants in American life by providing quality programs and services that educate and establish links to essential community resources.
The mission is sustained by the organization’s respect for human dignity and belief in the equality of all people. Mano a Mano Family Resource Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supported by the contributions of individuals, corporations and foundations. Their office is at 6 E. Main St., Round Lake Park.