New American Civic Academy (NACA)
Civic Engagement for New American Citizens
What is the NACA Program?
In 2026, Global Cleveland will host free virtual lunch and learn sessions with local elected officials, election board representatives, and community leaders for newly naturalized citizens.
Format: Virtual, via Zoom
Frequency: Every 2–3 months
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM (lunch hour)
About the Program
The New American Civic Academy is a free virtual learning series designed to help newly naturalized citizens understand and confidently participate in civic life in Northeast Ohio. Through accessible lunch-hour sessions, participants meet local elected officials, civic leaders, and community organizations that shape our region.
Each session provides practical guidance on topics such as voting, how local government works, connecting with local elected officials, and opportunities to get involved in community leadership. Whether participants are brand-new citizens or simply new to civic engagement, the program offers a welcoming space to learn, ask questions, and build connections that support long-term involvement in our community.
How NACA Works
Free Virtual Lunch and Learn Sessions
- Hosted on Zoom once per quarter
- Each session runs from 12:00 to 1:00 PM and includes a brief welcome from Global Cleveland and a conversation with guest speakers
- Participants can attend one session or multiple sessions across the year
Topics You Will Explore
- How to register and vote in local, state, and federal elections
- How city, county, and state government work
- How to contact your representatives and attend public meetings
- Ways to get involved in boards, commissions, and neighborhood groups
- Civic leadership
Who Can Join NACA?
- Newly naturalized U.S. citizens in Northeast Ohio
- Naturalized citizens who want to get more involved in civic life
- International Community members who have questions about voting, local government, and leadership opportunities
How to Join NACA
- Fill out the interest form
Complete a short registration form to join the New American Civic Academy. - Choose your sessions
When filling out the form, you will be able to Indicate which upcoming lunch and learn topics interest you most. - Receive your Zoom link and reminders
You will get email reminders with Zoom links before each session you select. - Stay connected
After each session, you will receive follow up resources and opportunities for deeper civic engagement.
Upcomming Sessions
Session One: Board of Elections and the Voting Process
Date: Wednesday, February 18th, 2026
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM (Zoom)
Focus: How to register, where to vote, what appears on the ballot, and what to expect on Election Day.
Featuring: Mike West – Manager of the Outreach Department at Cuyahoga County Board of Elections
Interested in Sponsoring NACA Sessions?
Your sponsorship directly supports accessible civic education, technology access, program materials, and guest speakers. Thank you for partnering with Global Cleveland to empower new citizens as they become active participants in our region’s civic future.
