Najlaa Al Saadun – Rediscovering Confidence Through Language

For Najlaa Al Saadun, learning English has never just been about vocabulary and grammar — it’s been about reclaiming confidence, connection, and the calling she once held dear.

Originally from Iraq, Najlaa came to the United States in 2008, bringing with her the heart of an educator. She was a teacher in Iraq, but since arriving in the U.S., she’s stepped away from the classroom — not because of a lack of passion, but because of one major barrier: language.

Although she became a U.S. citizen in 2020, Najlaa didn’t begin studying English seriously until 2024, when a friend encouraged her to join Skyline Literacy.

“Before, I didn’t want to try,” Najlaa says. “But my friend told me about Skyline Literacy. I became very interested in the materials. They helped my skills, and I felt excited and motivated to try.”

Since then, Najlaa has been enrolled in Level 2 English classes at Skyline Literacy, and the progress she’s made has been life-changing. With the encouragement of staff like Aveen, who reminded her that she can always reach out and share what she needs, Najlaa has gained both knowledge and accountability.

“Sometimes I didn’t want to continue,” she admits, “but the teachers and team always check on me. They keep me going.”

For Najlaa, learning English isn’t just about fulfilling a personal dream — it’s about understanding her children and participating fully in daily life.

“English is important because I live in the U.S. I need better English when I go to the doctor — and most importantly, to listen to my kids when they speak. Sometimes they speak in English and I don’t understand everything. This motivates me to learn.”

She speaks highly of the teachers and staff at Skyline, praising their consistency, care, and student-centered approach. The learning experience is not one-size-fits-all; it's personalized, encouraging each student to study the words and topics that matter most to them.

Looking ahead, Najlaa is excited to join the English Conversation Class this summer, with the goal of becoming more fluent. Her long-term dream? To regain her confidence and pursue a U.S. teaching certificate.

“I give Skyline Literacy a 10 out of 10,” she says with a smile. “They really care.”

Najlaa’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of community. At Skyline Literacy, we are honored to walk alongside her as she rediscovers her voice — and her purpose.

Wilder Gonzalez – Finding Confidence and Connection Through English

When Wilder Gonzalez moved from Nicaragua to the U.S. three years ago, he brought with him a degree in Business Administration and experience as a Credit Verifier. But like many newcomers, he found that adjusting to life in a new country meant starting over — and learning a new language.

Today, Wilder works in maintenance at George’s Food, where all of his co-workers speak English. It was a big shift from his previous role in sanitation, where Spanish was commonly spoken. Recognizing the need to communicate effectively at work and in the community, Wilder took action.

He heard about Skyline Literacy through his church and enrolled in our Digital Literacy class last year. After testing out of the first level of English, he quickly moved on to Level 2 English, where he continues to study today.

“Classes were very helpful,” Wilder says. “Before, I always needed my sister to help me translate at the bank or other places. Now, I can go with my family and my wife, and I can talk and understand what people are saying.”

From understanding instructions at work to handling personal errands like banking, Wilder’s improved English skills have given him the confidence and independence he was hoping for. He can now follow both technical work terms and have personal conversations in English — a huge step in building a life here.

One of his greatest joys? Practicing English with his daughter, who learned the language in school.

“She speaks very well — she says she is advanced,” Wilder shares with pride. “Now I can understand her and practice with her. I am very thankful for that.”

Wilder's journey with Skyline Literacy is far from over. He plans to continue taking classes and, in the future, hopes to enroll in university-level English courses. Long-term, he wants to take citizenship classes and become a U.S. citizen.

“Since I live in the U.S., I believe it’s important to learn the language,” he says. “The teachers are very friendly and the materials are very helpful. I think Skyline has a good idea and gives good support for people who want to learn English.”

As a father, Wilder is also grateful for the support Skyline provides to families. His daughter is involved with the Gus Bus reading program, and this semester Skyline is offering free English classes for parents of Gus Bus students.

“Skyline is always asking what students need and is very caring, even financially,” he adds.

Wilder’s story is a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when people are given the tools and support they need to grow. We’re proud to be part of his journey — and excited to see what’s next.

2023-24 Annual Report

Reflecting on 2023–24: A Year of Growth, Gratitude, and Community Impact

As we close the books on the 2023–24 program year, we’re proud to share our Annual Report — a reflection of the lives changed, the milestones reached, and the incredible people who made it all possible.

Thanks to YOU — our staff, donors, volunteers, and students — Skyline Literacy continues to be a beacon of opportunity in our community.

Empowering Through Education

This past year, our team worked tirelessly to provide accessible literacy, English language, and citizenship preparation programs. Every class taught, every tutoring session held, and every assessment completed was powered by the dedication of our exceptional staff and volunteers. Your compassion and expertise are at the heart of every student success story.

Thank You to Our Donors

To our generous donors — thank you for believing in our mission. Your financial support helped us offer affordable, high-quality programs that meet the unique needs of adult learners across Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. With your help, we've created a space where newcomers can learn, grow, and thrive.

Celebrating Our Students

To our students, we are inspired by your courage, perseverance, and determination. Whether you were learning English, studying for the citizenship exam, or preparing for a job interview, you showed what’s possible when education meets opportunity. We are honored to walk alongside you on your journey.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the year ahead — including recovering from the recent loss of a major federal grant — we are reminded that community support is what fuels our mission. Together, we will keep moving forward, making literacy, language, and citizenship accessible for all.

Click here to read our Annual Report.

Skyline Literacy Loses Federal Citizenship Preparation Funding – Community Support Needed

Harrisonburg, VA – Skyline Literacy (SL) regrets to announce that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has suspended and terminated our USCIS Citizenship and Integration Grant, eliminating a critical source of funding for the next two years. DHS cited that the scope of work under this grant “no longer effectuates the program goals and the Department’s priorities,” effectively requiring SL to cease all federally funded work immediately.

As a result, we have lost $239,900 in funding that would have provided essential citizenship preparation classes, naturalization support, and legal assistance to lawful permanent residents (LPRs) in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. This loss directly impacts our ability to serve immigrants seeking to become U.S. citizens. For more than 20 years, Skyline Literacy has provided high quality citizenship classes, tutoring, mock interviews, and referrals to help LPRs navigate the complex naturalization process. Without these funds, we must now rely on our community’s generosity to continue offering these vital services.

How You Can Help: Donate – Your financial support ensures we can continue citizenship classes and referrals for legal screenings.

Volunteer – Help teach English, lead tutoring sessions, or assist with paperwork.

Spread the Word – Share our mission and encourage others to get involved.

Now more than ever, we need YOU to stand with us in ensuring that aspiring citizens have the support they need. Every contribution—big or small—makes a difference! To donate or get involved, visit www.skylineliteracy.org or call 540-433-0505. Together, We Can Keep Citizenship Within Reach!

Student Success Story: Roselina's Journey with Skyline Literacy

Roselina came to the United States from the Dominican Republic in 2018 with her husband, eager to build a new life. While adjusting to her new home, she recognized the importance of learning English to communicate effectively and pursue her goals. In 2023, she joined Skyline Literacy to take English language classes, determined to improve her skills and gain confidence in her daily interactions.

With dedication and the support of Skyline Literacy’s teachers and staff, Roselina made steady progress. She enjoyed the classes and found them instrumental in enhancing her ability to speak, read, and write in English. Encouraged by her success, she took the next step in her journey—enrolling in Skyline’s Citizenship Preparation class. The class provided her with the knowledge and confidence she needed to prepare for her naturalization interview. After months of studying and practice, Roselina successfully completed her interview and proudly became a U.S. citizen on January 13, 2025.

Roselina’s improved English skills have also helped her in the workplace. She works at Walmart, where she now confidently communicates with both customers and coworkers in English. She plans to continue taking English classes at Skyline Literacy to further enhance her skills and expand her opportunities.

Roselina wholeheartedly recommends Skyline Literacy to anyone who wants to improve their English or become a U.S. citizen. Her story is a testament to the life-changing impact of education and community support.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, adult students like Roselina can access essential language and citizenship classes that empower them to achieve their dreams. Your gift to Skyline Literacy makes a real difference—helping individuals gain the skills they need to succeed in their personal and professional lives. Join us in supporting more students like Roselina on their journey to success.

Skyline Literacy and Church World Services Awarded Two-Year USCIS Citizenship and Integration Grant

Harrisonburg, VA – Skyline Literacy (SL) and Church World Services (CWS) Harrisonburg are proud to announce their partnership in a two-year grant project funded by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Citizenship and Integration Grant Program. This collaborative effort, supported by an award of $239,900, will span from November 22, 2024, to September 30, 2026, and will provide essential citizenship preparation and naturalization application services to lawful permanent residents (LPRs) in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County.

Skyline Literacy will serve as the primary applicant and fiscal agent for the grant, overseeing reporting requirements and ensuring compliance with program objectives. The organization will deliver comprehensive citizenship instruction to 160 LPRs over the two-year project, including classes, review sessions, mock interviews, and needs-based tutoring.

Church World Services Harrisonburg, the project’s sub-awardee, will handle naturalization application services. Their accredited staff will conduct eligibility screenings, consultations, and prepare and submit N-400 and G-28 applications for a minimum of 160 LPRs during the grant period.

Project Highlights

• Citizenship Classes: Skyline Literacy will provide structured classes for LPRs, helping participants improve their English and prepare for the naturalization process. A registration fee of $40 will be charged to participants, with all proceeds supporting the program.

• Naturalization Services: CWS will offer free eligibility screenings and consultations, along with application services for a fee of $50 per applicant, in alignment with the grant budget.

• Integrated Support: Both organizations will coordinate referrals to ensure LPRs receive the appropriate combination of citizenship instruction and application assistance.

• Outreach and Awareness: Together, SL and CWS will develop print and web-based advertising to promote their services. They will also host four Naturalization Information Sessions in Harrisonburg and nearby communities during the grant period.

Project Goals

• Provide 160 unduplicated LPRs with eligibility screenings through CWS.

• Enroll 160 unduplicated students in citizenship preparation classes through SL.

• File 160 N-400 and G-28 applications through CWS.

• Organize four Naturalization Information Sessions in Harrisonburg and surrounding areas.

“We are thrilled to receive this grant and partner with Church World Services to offer critical services to lawful permanent residents in our community,” said Nelly Moreno Shenk. “This initiative strengthens our commitment to empowering individuals with the tools they need to achieve their full potential and contribute to our community.”

For more information about the citizenship preparation program or to get involved, please contact Skyline Literacy at 540-433-0505.

About Skyline Literacy

Skyline Literacy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals through literacy and education. With a focus on adult learners, the organization offers programs in basic literacy, ESOL, and citizenship preparation.

About Church World Services Harrisonburg

Church World Services Harrisonburg provides immigration and refugee services, assisting individuals and families in navigating complex immigration processes. Their mission is to create a welcoming and inclusive community for all.

Skyline Literacy: A Champion for Lifelong Learning

       In a recent interview, we had the privilege of speaking with the former president of Skyline Literacy’s Board of Directors, Stan Farthing. His insights shed light on why Skyline’s mission is essential to our community and how individuals can support its vital work.

     Stan first encountered Skyline Literacy (SL) during his tenure with the Chamber of Commerce, where SL was an active member. His connection began when he assisted with a ribbon-cutting event on South High Street between 2008 and 2010. Through various chamber events, he interacted with Skyline staff and was eventually invited to join the Board of Directors. His passion for reading and its profound impact on people’s livelihoods motivated him to get involved. Over time, he learned more about SL’s offerings, including ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) and citizenship classes, further deepening his commitment.

     His initial motivation for joining the board stemmed from a desire to support long-term solutions for community members, helping them achieve self-sufficiency and make meaningful contributions. Unlike immediate relief resources, Skyline’s focus on sustained growth and empowerment stood out to him as a unique and impactful approach.

     One pivotal moment during his tenure came in 2018-2019 when Skyline faced a financial crisis. Many doubted the organization’s ability to continue its mission. However, Skyline’s leadership and board turned to the community for support, and the response was overwhelming. “The community rose up to support Skyline Literacy,” he recalled. This moment reinforced his confidence in both the organization and the strength of the Harrisonburg-Rockingham community, which he believes values and supports nonprofits more than any other place he’s seen.

     When asked why Skyline’s mission is so vital, he highlighted two key aspects: basic literacy and ESOL. These services help individuals integrate into the community and realize their full potential. For those who don’t speak English, life’s events and opportunities can feel out of reach. Skyline bridges that gap, enabling people to contribute meaningfully to their families, the local economy, and society at large.

     Literacy has a profound ripple effect on employment, education, and civic engagement. It empowers individuals to be self-sufficient, provide for their families, and participate actively in civic life. “When you give someone the tools of literacy and citizenship,” he explained, “you’re moving them toward making contributions that enhance the community.”

     For those considering volunteering or supporting Skyline Literacy, his advice is simple: “If these things are important to you, join the mission. If you’re committed to the long-term goals of empowering adult learners, your involvement can make a lasting impact.”

    Looking ahead, he emphasized the growing importance of digital literacy, ensuring that individuals can navigate an increasingly digital world. However, he stressed the enduring need for foundational skills in reading, writing, and speaking English, as these remain critical for community integration and success.

     The Stan believes that Skyline Literacy’s mission will remain essential as the U.S. continues to welcome immigrants and refugees. “There will always be a need for ESOL and citizenship resources,” he stated. With continued community support, Skyline can help individuals achieve their potential, which in turn strengthens the local economy and society.

     He also praised Skyline’s current leadership, particularly Executive Director Nelly, for her unwavering commitment and effective use of resources. “Nelly is a significant asset to Skyline and the community benefits immensely from her leadership,” he said.

Join the Mission

     Skyline Literacy’s work is a testament to the power of community and the transformative potential of literacy. If you’re inspired by this mission, consider volunteering, becoming a board member, or supporting their programs. Together, we can help more individuals realize their potential and build a stronger, more inclusive community.

Yasa Ahmed’s Journey: From GED to New Horizons

Yasa Ahmed’s story is one of determination, resilience, and the power of community support. Originally from Iraq, Yasa began her journey with Skyline Literacy in 2022, enrolling in individual tutoring to prepare for her GED (General Educational Development) exams. She started by focusing on English comprehension, followed by Social Studies, noting that Math and Science came more easily to her. With the guidance and dedication of her tutors, Chris Gingrich and Reta Finger, Yasa steadily built the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed.

In November, Yasa achieved her goal by passing all four GED subjects and proudly earned her High School Equivalency Diploma. She celebrated this milestone with gratitude, expressing heartfelt thanks to Skyline Literacy and her tutors for their unwavering commitment to her success. As an assistant teacher in the Harrisonburg City Schools, Yasa loves her work and now dreams of advancing her career by becoming a certified teacher. While she’s not ready to begin college just yet, Yasa is already exploring future opportunities, demonstrating her determination to keep learning and growing. Her story is an inspiration to all, showing that with hard work and the right support, dreams can become reality.

Volunteer Success Story: Jen Rafter

When Jen Rafter moved to Harrisonburg from Kansas, she sought connection and community in her new home. Having spent years volunteering with citizenship classes back in Kansas, she knew she wanted to continue helping others. After meeting Jorge from Skyline Literacy at a local event, she found the perfect opportunity to make a meaningful impact as a volunteer ESL teacher.

Jen's role at Skyline Literacy has been more than just teaching language. For her, it’s about empowering students to navigate their lives with confidence and connection. She recalls working with women juggling demanding jobs and family responsibilities who still made time to attend Monday evening classes. “Their resilience is truly humbling,” Jen shares. One of her favorite moments was helping her students overcome initial fears of using laptops. With patience and practice, those same students went from hesitation to excitement, confidently tackling each new task and asking, “What’s next?”

Beyond language lessons, Jen treasures the cultural exchanges that have enriched her time at Skyline Literacy. From sharing meals representing various global traditions to exchanging personal stories, Jen discovered the unifying power of shared experiences. She emphasizes how the support and camaraderie among volunteers and students make the experience deeply rewarding. “I’ve learned so much from my students. The connections we make are worth every moment.”

Jen encourages others to join Skyline Literacy’s mission, assuring prospective volunteers that qualifications or barriers shouldn’t hold them back. "You’ll have great support here, and the impact you make will inspire you every day,” she says. For Jen, being part of Skyline Literacy means being part of a community that’s building stronger futures—together.

Juana's Journey: A Story of Determination and Community

Juana came to the United States from Guatemala in 1993 with a big dream in her heart: to one day become a U.S. citizen. Despite the language barrier and the challenges of navigating a new country, her desire to learn English and become a citizen never wavered. However, as she settled into her new life, she found that everyday tasks were difficult without a strong grasp of English. Even making a simple doctor’s appointment or helping her son, who is deaf and mute, felt like monumental tasks.

For many years, Juana relied on others to interpret for her, feeling trapped by her limited language skills. But she knew she wanted more for herself and her family. One day, someone mentioned a place called Skyline Literacy, a community organization that offered classes to help people like her. Juana decided to visit, hoping to find the help she needed to achieve her dreams.

At Skyline Literacy, she enrolled in a citizenship class, driven by her goal to become a U.S. citizen. The teachers were kind and patient, helping her understand not just the questions for the citizenship test, but also the history and values of her new country. Her hard work paid off, and she proudly became a U.S. citizen.

But Juana didn’t stop there. She continued with English classes, recognizing that language skills would open even more doors for her. Slowly but surely, she started to see the difference. With each class, she gained confidence. The simple things she once struggled with—calling a doctor, filling out forms, or helping her son at the hospital—became more manageable. Her son, noticing her progress, once commented on her determination, calling her "intelligent" for pushing through, even when it was difficult.

Juana’s journey of learning didn’t end with citizenship and English. Her curiosity led her to ask about digital literacy, and she expressed a desire to learn about using the internet and sending emails. She laughed, admitting she felt too old to learn new technology, but her teachers at Skyline assured her that it was never too late.

Through Skyline Literacy, Juana not only learned language skills but also found a supportive community. She felt comfortable asking questions and making mistakes because she knew the teachers were there to guide her. She appreciated the opportunity to learn without financial barriers, understanding how critical that support was for others in similar situations.

Today, Juana is asource of hope for many. At her job and in her church, she encourages others to take advantage of Skyline Literacy’s programs. She shares her own story, urging them to push past their fears and embrace learning, no matter their age or background. Her message is clear: "It’s not just about dreaming; it’s about taking the steps to make those dreams a reality."

Juana's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of a supportive community. With Skyline Literacy, she found the tools to unlock her potential and the courage to help others along the way. Her story is one of transformation, not just in language skills, but in her newfound confidence and independence, which have made a world of difference in her life.