Getting into racing (in the United States)

[S14]

So, I'm twenty two, living and studying in the United States, and I'm hoping to finally get into racing. So, the inevitable question of "How do I get into racing?" is on my lips. I'm looking at getting a job with some sort of racing team, probably an ALMS GT class team - I have no expectation of driving (unless it's to get parts/tyres/coffee) but I figure getting my foot in the door, being around the cars and racing, and making some money is definitely a better choice than just hoping for a drive to come along. Of course, I'd like to be driving, so I'm looking for advice with regard to what series would be appropriate for a beginner, what sort of costs I should expect, where to go to driving school, and that sort of thing.

I've been looking at Formula Vee as an option, since it looks like it could be a good way to get my feet wet, with a car that I can reasonably do most of the maintenance on, and without having to worry about massive costs (it looks like getting into it would cost between $5000-$15,000). However, I'm concerned that my options may be somewhat limited by my location - I split my time between Colorado and New Mexico, and it doesn't seem like there are many tracks nearby. And I can't seem to find if there's a particularly active Formula Vee scene in my region.

Also, I wear contact lenses. Would I be able to race in them, or would I have to wear spectacles instead? Are prescription helmet lenses available, and if they are, are they allowed by the rules?

Thanks, everyone.