As much as we hate to say it, it looks like we're going to have to get the government involved. Well, let's not make it any more of a hassle than it already is. These links provide general information, forms, contact numbers and email addresses.
This is your first stop if you want to get a "green card," permanent residency and, ultimately, if you want to become a citizen and vote (no hanging chads, please!)
While living in the U.S., you may at some point need to consult an embassy or a consulate general. Below are the links:
South African Embassy in Washington D.C.
Consulate General in New York
Consulate General in Los Angeles