DOWNEY – After being a permanent resident for over 35 years, Manny Castro has fulfilled his lifelong dream of achieving his US citizenship.

As Minuteman Press franchise owner in Downey for 14 years, Castro credits the support of his family and the team at Minuteman Press International with helping him achieve his dream.

“I officially became a US citizen on Nov. 20, 2020, and it feels just great,” he said. “This is my home; I have been living in the States most of my life and now I can vote. I am really proud of being a citizen of the greatest country in the world, a land of opportunities for all.”

From El Salvador to Entrepreneurship

Originally from El Salvador, Castro said he is proud to be “a shining example of achieving the American Dream” both in his life and in his career.

“To get my US citizenship after all this time is just an incredible accomplishment,” he said. “I came to this beautiful country 38 years ago without a dollar in my pocket, no skills, no academic degrees, no English, not even a high school diploma. Just a young teenager at that time, running away from a very conflicted civil war in El Salvador, looking for a better life.”

Reflecting back on those struggles and thinking about where he is today, Castro exclaimed, “All I can say now is God is great, and may God continue to bless this great country that offers people from all walks of life, hope, endless opportunities, and a second chance in life.”

Castro has owned his Minuteman Press franchise in Downey since May 2007. During that time, he has successfully built his business while receiving training and support from his franchisor.

“My Regional Vice President Dan Byers and Steve Szymanski have always had my back since day one. They both wrote a beautiful letter of recommendation for me, to support my application for my citizenship,” Castro said. “It meant so much to me and my family. Dan and Steve were delighted to help when I asked; everything I obtained when applying contributed to me being granted my citizenship.

“My kids were born here, and my entire family have already become citizens. It was time for me now to take that next step as well and join the millions of proud Americans. I love this country so much, and I’ve met great people along the way.

“God has opened up so many doors for me here. It is a land of opportunity for all. If you work hard, the sky is the limit.”