Learning English and becoming a citizen is hard work, but for one Valley neighbor, it's all worth it. For the first time in Mildred Delgado's life, she is registered to vote. This is something she could never do in El Salvador.

"This is the first time, and I feel so proud to vote for our president. They give us a choice to vote for, who is the better person to me?" said Delgado.

But her story isn't too common among new citizens. A lot of times, they are unsure about the voting process. Elizabeth Girvan, who helps teach immigrants English, wants to create a program that helps new citizens learn how to register.

"I'm really excited to think about the prospect of maybe having this orientation for folks who have just become citizens. It's like this whole new world that's opened up to them, and we could make sure they get plugged in as quickly as possible," said Girvan from Skyline Literacy in Harrisonburg.

For Delgado, it's been a long process not only to become a citizen, but to learn English.

"Three years for residence. After my residence, 5 years. It's a long wait, but I did it. Yes, I got it!"

That's the type of story Girvan hopes to see more often here in the Valley.

"To see them get there and to think that Skyline and our tutors have been able to help them along the way, it's very rewarding."

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