[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 154 (Thursday, November 8, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2035]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   CELEBRATING 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF OAKLAND

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BARBARA LEE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 8, 2001

  Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 60th Anniversary 
Celebration of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland, California.
  In 1941, the Filbert Street Boys Club merged with the East Oakland 
Boys Club to become the Oakland Boys Clubs. The purpose of this club 
was to create a fun environment while at the same time provide 
educational programs and services specifically tailored to the needs of 
young men. For many years the Oakland Boys Clubs were solely focused on 
providing for the well-being of boys. However, in 1989 the Board of 
Directors agreed that their organization should be a club that is 
inclusive rather than exclusive. Therefore, they extended their 
membership to young women. They wanted the Oakland Boys Clubs to become 
the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland which would welcome young people of 
all backgrounds.
  The Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland have a membership of 2,400 people 
who are taking full advantage of the programs and services this 
organization has to provide. The Boys & Girls Clubs offer career 
development, character and leadership development, health and life 
skills, arts, sports, fitness and recreation opportunities. They 
empower young men and women to live a happier, healthier and fuller 
lives.
  The Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland strives to instill and enhance a 
sense of competence, usefulness, belonging, influence and 
responsibility in each child. This organization is dedicated to 
enriching the lives of our youth.
  I ask Congress to join me and the constituents of the 9th 
Congressional District in celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the Boys 
& Girls Clubs of Oakland and in wishing them many more years of success 
and positive influence on our young leaders of tomorrow!

                          ____________________