[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 99 (Friday, June 16, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1272]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 A TRIBUTE TO SOUTH GLENS FALLS CENTRAL SCHOOL VOLUNTEER/MENTOR PROGRAM

                                 ______


                        HON. GERALD B.H. SOLOMON

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 15, 1995

  Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise today and pay 
tribute to a program which provides a tremendous service to the 
students and community of South Glens Falls. The Volunteer/Mentor 
Program is completing its second year of service helping elementary and 
middle school children with their self-esteem, allowing them to meet 
their academic and personal potential.
  Young people comprise America's greatest asset. In that respect, a 
program like this one is invaluable and representative of that uniquely 
American concept of volunteerism. In this day and age especially, our 
children are subject to an alarming range of negative influences. 
Therefore, it is critical that we call upon the entire community to 
assist our young people in overcoming problems with their self-esteem 
by countering the impact of damaging social ills. That is why the 
service of the 60 volunteers in this program is so critical.
  Allow me to recount some of the efforts of these mentors. They meet 
with the students in small, or even one-to-one settings for at least 45 
minutes per week. This relationship between mentor and child lasts for 
a minimum of one school year, whereby affected children receive the 
degree of attention they need to ensure they reach their maximum 
potential. These volunteers and the children often establish such 
strong bonds that many mentors have extended their service for a second 
year.
  This type of devotion exemplifies those qualities which makes 
Americans, and America, great. I have always felt that there are three 
distinct reasons for this greatness, American pride, patriotism and 
volunteerism. The American people have been noted for this voluntary 
service, be it in the fire departments, civic and community 
organizations, or extracurricular programs at our schools.
  Mr. Speaker, the United States of America is the longest continuing 
democracy in the world and a model for emerging countries. In that same 
mold, people like those who comprise the Volunteer/Mentor Program in 
the South Glens Falls Central School District are models for all of us 
here.
  I have always been one to judge people based on what they return to 
their community. By that measure, these volunteers are truly great 
Americans. I ask, Mr. Speaker, that you, and all fellow Members, join 
me in paying tribute to this program that works to protect our future.

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