In an era of deep polarization, community members are rebuilding the social fabric of their communities by volunteering to help newcomer neighbors establish their lives and build a shared future together. Centered on the significance of Citizenship Day (September 17), this session focuses on the transformative power of the path to citizenship as a shared journey between neighbors. We will explore how community foundations and local leaders—through initiatives like the Welcome.US Citizen Guide program—are anchoring welcome as a non-partisan civic value. By shifting from political debate to one-to-one engagement, these efforts create sustained interaction across differences and build trust over time. This session explores how building civic practice for both the newcomer and the volunteer mends the social and economic fabric of our towns and cities. Panelists: A Community Foundation Executive who can discuss why investing in civic belonging and naturalization support is a strategic priority for long-term community health and regional economic growth. A local volunteer who can share how the 1:1 experience of helping a neighbor prepare for citizenship bridged social divides and transformed their own perspective on community and belonging. A library director or community based organization who can speak to the practical benefits of providing a neutral, functional infrastructure for the citizenship journey.