[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 78 (Thursday, June 7, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1048]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




COMMENDING YOUNG SOUTHWEST FLORIDIANS FOR THEIR SERVICE AND HEALTH CARE 
                        TO ELDERLY COSTA RICANS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. PORTER J. GOSS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 7, 2001

  Mr. GOSS. Mr. Speaker, while for most of us it is sometimes difficult 
to find time to participate in service activities locally, it is nearly 
impossible to reach out to those who need assistance internationally. 
As the plight of many citizens of poorer countries often goes 
unrecognized, it is notable when a group reaches across our nation's 
borders to offer aid. It is even more impressive when those taking the 
initiative to do so are young people.
  Recently, twelve of my constituents, members of the Barron Collier 
High School Key Club, traveled to San Jose, Costa Rica to charter the 
first Key Club in that country. This was a large undertaking, supported 
by almost 50 businesses, Kiwanis Clubs and individuals. These young 
Southwest Floridians trained their counterparts at the Marian Baker 
High School and then set out together to provide service and health 
care necessities to elderly Costa Ricans. The students also 
demonstrated their eagerness to serve the community as they worked to 
improve conditions at a local park and clean the littered beaches.
  These students have proven that respected values exist worldwide. As 
these culturally dissimilar teens worked side by side, they exhibited 
that compassion is an attribute native to all. It is outstanding 
international efforts such as these that restore faith in America's 
youth. I congratulate the Barron Collier students and encourage them to 
continue upholding the mission of Kiwanis International to improve the 
quality of life for children and families everywhere.

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