[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 150 (Friday, October 29, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2217-E2218]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


               RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF 4-H CLUBS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. HENRY BONILLA

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 25, 1999

  Mr. BONILLA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this legislation 
``recognizing the contributions of 4-H clubs and their members to 
voluntary community service.''
  4-H clubs serve as outstanding youth development programs for the 
youngsters of rural and urban America. They give our young people great 
opportunities and skills. They provide a sense of accomplishment 
through a job well done. 4-H provides career-oriented education and 
after-school safe havens.
  But in a larger sense, participation in 4-H has effects far beyond 
the students participating. By instilling in the youth of today, values 
and morals which will give them the power to make ethical decisions. 4-
H helps develop the leaders of this nation's tomorrow. The ability to 
recognize and participate, voluntarily, in community service activities 
is perhaps one of the greatest ethics we can teach our youth.
  Volunteering to help others is a part of the American culture. 
American history is full of people who not only recognized that the 
world is full of need, but also did something about it. They decided to 
make their communities better places. In today's seemingly self-
oriented society it is refreshing to see young people recognize the 
needs of others and volunteer their time to benefit those who need 
help.
  The young people of 4-H programs across the nation have set an 
example of unwavering cheerful service to benefitting the welfare of 
others. These youth are truly displaying leadership through service to 
their fellow man and I take great pride in recognizing their 
contributions to building better communities. We

[[Page E2218]]

should follow their example and become involved, the opportunities are 
boundless.

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