[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 91 (Thursday, July 14, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: July 14, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
    TRIBUTE TO THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF THE BLIND AND 
                                RETARDED

  Mr. MOYNIHAN. Mr. President, I have addressed this body many times on 
behalf of the rights of the disabled. Americans have come to recognize 
that we have a responsibility to help individuals overcome both their 
physical and mental handicaps. We must do all we can to ensure that 
they lead more full and productive lives.
  I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to one 
organization that has taken the lead in helping these most deserving 
individuals--the Association for the Advancement of the Blind and 
Retarded. AABR is a private organization which, for nearly 40 years, 
has served young adults and adults that are afflicted with multiple 
handicaps, including blindness and severe mental retardation.
  There are, indeed, far too few programs that provide extensive 
services to these neediest of our fellow citizens. AABR is able to do 
so through programs that are tailormade by 300 professional and 
paraprofessional staff members who are trained in the latest advances 
and methods of instruction. They also operate day treatment centers, 
family services, recreation programs, a vacation retreat, and education 
programs serving individuals throughout the New York City area.
  AABR's staff members are inspiring and compassionate people--the 
exact sort we need in this profession. As a result of their patience 
and devotion, AABR's clients are helped to reach their full potential. 
The enthusiasm and wonderful sense of caring and commitment of the 
staff should serve as an inspiration to us all.
  Over the years, AABR's magnificent accomplishments have won 
considerable praise and support from the private sector. For example, 
on August 8 of this year the Metropolitan Club Managers Association of 
New York will hold it's 21st annual charity golf and tennis tournament 
and dinner dance for the benefit of AABR's handicapped youth. The 
support and the encouragement provided by MCMA is most noteworthy and 
sets a superb example for others to follow.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in extending best wishes for an 
enjoyable event and much continued success to AABR, MCMA, and all those 
involved in this worthwhile cause.

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