How A New Initiative In New York Will Help Both Veterans And Immigrants?

2015-09-26T16:32:35-04:00

How A New Initiative In New York Will Help Both Veterans And Immigrants?

RP Members and Veterans what do you think of this Initiative?

http://thinkprogress.org/immigration/2015/09/24/3705025/new-york-state-veterans-immigrants-citizenship-initiative/
New York state has launched an initiative pairing two groups of people who may have difficulty integrating into American society: Military veterans and immigrants studying to become citizens.

Through a statewide effort, Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) is recruiting military veterans to teach newcomers English and to help them prepare for their citizenship exam. The initiative also aims to encourage immigrants to volunteer with veterans organizations such as the New York State Division of Veterans’ Affairs and the United States Department of Veteran Affairs hospitals to help them transition from military to civilian life.

“New York has long been a beacon to those who come to this nation to make a better lives for themselves and their families,” Governor Cuomo said in a press release. “I can think of no better way to honor and continue this rich legacy than this program, which pairs heroes who fought to preserve the American Dream with those who came to here to pursue the American Dream. Our strength is our diversity and I’m proud to help launch this new initiative for new New Yorkers.”

The program would allow veteran volunteers to help immigrants learn to use a computer or tablet device to practice English, practice English conversation, conduct mock testing sessions for immigrants hoping to take the naturalization exam, among other types of assistance. Meanwhile, veterans will be able to “use their experiences and world knowledge to connect with people and help develop diverse communities,” the press release stated.