Ascend: Senior Adults Preparing for U.S. Citizenship in Spanish

Mani Rubio

March 10, 2026

At SRA Ministries, senior adults are preparing for the U.S. citizenship test through the Ascend! program, with classes taught in Spanish for those who qualify under USCIS guidelines. This initiative empowers participants to confidently take the next step toward citizenship in a supportive and community-centered environment.

At SRA Ministries, senior adults are finding a renewed sense of purpose as they prepare for the U.S. citizenship and naturalization test through the Ascend! program. Individuals who are 55 years of age or older and have held permanent residency for more than 15 years qualify under USCIS guidelines to take the citizenship test in Spanish. This provision allows them to demonstrate their knowledge of civics, U.S. history, and government in their primary language, removing a major barrier and opening the door to citizenship. SRA Ministries has created a program specifically designed to meet their needs, ensuring they are well prepared both academically and emotionally. Classes are conducted entirely in Spanish, allowing participants to fully understand the content and engage confidently. The learning environment is welcoming, respectful, and built around their life experiences. It is a powerful opportunity for participants to move forward after many years of contributing to this country.

The program is led by Eduardo Angulo, who brings both experience and passion to his role as instructor. Having served Dallas ISD for more than five years as a Teacher Assistant in Southeast elementary campuses, Eduardo understands the importance of education at every stage of life. He shared that coming to Jubilee Park after a long day working with children gives him a renewed sense of purpose in his educational career. “Being able to teach civics, U.S. history, and government in Spanish to people who have served this country through years of hard work is truly meaningful,” he said. He emphasized that this is a moment for participants to move into a new level of social responsibility as future U.S. citizens. “I am proud to help them in their path to citizenship,” he concluded. His dedication has made a lasting impact on the students he serves.

Participants themselves express excitement and pride in being part of the program. Ms. Francisca shared, “Our citizenship program is called Ascend!, and it reminds me of the American eagle rising—moving forward and becoming something new.” She reflected on the journey many in the class are experiencing after years of living and working in the United States. “We are moving into a new chapter, becoming U.S. citizens after many years—it is really exciting,” she said. With a smile, she added, “And as Peter Parker said, after excitement comes more responsibility—I think that’s how it goes!” Her words capture both the joy and the seriousness of this important step. The program fosters not only knowledge but also a deep sense of pride and belonging.

Senior adults in the Ascend! program meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Jubilee Park Community Center. In addition to structured lessons, they often share meals, bringing food to enjoy together and creating a warm, family-like atmosphere. As part of the program, participants also contribute service hours by supporting light activities with children and helping organize community events such as potlucks. Angel Del Rio, CEO and Founder of SRA Ministries, shared the organization’s vision moving forward. “We would love to open more sites like Jubilee Park across the Metroplex where families and children can come together to learn English, and where senior adults can prepare for citizenship,” he said. He emphasized the joy and energy this group brings to the program. “They are truly a fun group to be around,” he added. Through programs like Ascend!, SRA Ministries continues to build pathways toward opportunity, dignity, and community for all.