[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 155 (Saturday, December 19, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2355-E2356]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               CONGRATULATIONS TO THE COLORADO BOYS RANCH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BOB SCHAFFER

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 18, 1998

  Mr. BOB SCHAFFER of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 
congratulate the Colorado Boys Ranch which has been designated the 
winner of the Samaritan Institute Award for demonstrating ``the 
importance of ethical values through its work.'' The Boys Ranch, a 
residential treatment and education center for troubled youth near La 
Junta, Colorado, has helped boys for the last 40 years. Operated on a 
40-acre site, the Boys Ranch provides education, skills, and 
counseling. Its innovative programs and individual attention have 
contributed to the Ranch's exceptional success rate. One study 
indicated 21 months following discharge, 80 percent of graduates were 
living successfully with their families or on their own.
  Mr. Speaker, the Colorado Boys Ranch deserves Congress' recognition 
for helping kids gain the education, skills, and perspective needed to 
succeed. A new outlook on life, embedded in ethics and morals, is 
essential to gaining a good and fruitful life. Skills and education, 
while important, will not help a troubled child make a break with the 
past, unless they

[[Page E2356]]

are matched with a sense of right and wrong, a regard for others, self-
respect, and a willingness to work hard. Private and public entities 
which seek to help high-risk youth, should emulate the Boys Ranch. We 
are proud of this Colorado organization which has touched the lives of 
our children and communities.

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