By VIVIAN CARTER

For the fourth year in a row, Fordham Bedford Community Services (FBCS) celebrated another class of new U.S. citizens, who achieved this milestone, passing the citizenship test, with the expert assistance of FBCS. 

The event, held on the evening of March 25 at Refuge House of Our Lady of Refuge parish, included certificate presentations to the graduates who had taken part in weekly classes for eight months, before taking and passing the exam.

There was an opportunity for each graduate to say a few words about their experiences.  A complimentary buffet dinner for graduates and their family and friends followed.  John Garcia, FBCS executive director, said: “this ceremony represents the culmination of a journey that begins with a dream and takes years of dedication and persistence to fulfill.”  He noted that each of the graduates had worked hard to achieve the right to participate in society by attending weekly classes, studying to pass the examination, registering to vote, filing taxes, and participating in democracy.

At least half a dozen graduates took the microphone to describe their experiences, including one mother who recently purchased a home for herself and her family.

“My own parents always gave me a good example of how to be a good citizen,” he said.

More than 25 residents of Serviam Gardens, a senior citizens only apartment complex affiliated with FBCS, have graduated from the program in the past three years.