[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 49 (Thursday, April 5, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E549]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             ARC OF DALLAS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARTIN FROST

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 4, 2001

  Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize and congratulate 
the Arc of Dallas for its efforts in improving the quality of life of 
persons with mental retardation and related developmental conditions. 
The Arc of Dallas will celebrate its 50th anniversary this year and 
deserves to be recognized for its accomplishments in my district.
  The Arc of Dallas formed when a small group of concerned parents met 
in 1951 to discuss their children's educational needs. This small group 
was the beginning of an organization that grew into the largest 
mentally handicapped advocacy group in the Dallas area. Today, there 
are chapters of the Arc across the United States. While the Arc of 
Dallas remains connected to the national office, it also works 
independently to reach the goals of the Dallas community.
  The Arc of Dallas works diligently to accomplish its goals and has 
produced impressive results. Presently, one person in every 10 families 
in the Dallas area, about 60,000 individuals, has some form of mental 
retardation and thousands more have related conditions. It is no 
surprise that in 2000, the Arc of Dallas directly helped nearly 26,000 
people. This organization truly makes a difference to the lives of many 
constituents in my district.
  An example of the great success of this advocacy group is it's day-
camp program. Last year was the first year to offer a spring and summer 
day-camp program for children ages 5 to 21. It made a difference in the 
lives of 140 children last year. This year, the day-camp program will 
run for 11 weeks and will offer fun summer activities for nearly 220 
children such as field trips, crafts, computer centers and outdoor 
activities. Programs like these truly demonstrate the success of the 
Arc of Dallas.
  Once again, I am very proud to see the honorable work being 
accomplished in my district. The Arc of Dallas has made a difference in 
so many peoples' lives in the 50 years of their existence. The 
difference they are making is immeasurable. I know my colleagues will 
join me in saluting the Arc of Dallas and chapters across the Nation.




                          ____________________