[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 137 (Thursday, October 17, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1894]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS Of S. ROBERT COHEN ON HIS 75TH BIRTHDAY

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                       HON. CONSTANCE A. MORELLA

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 16, 2002

  Mrs. MORELLA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the vast contributions 
of S. Robert Cohen, on the occasion of his 75th birthday which is 
October 20, 2002. For over 20 years, Bob Cohen has given his heart and 
soul, time and effort to ensuring individuals with disabilities always 
have a home. He spearheaded the creation of The Jewish Foundation for 
Group Homes (JFGH), a non-sectarian, non-profit organization that 
provides residential services to adults with developmental disabilities 
and chronic mental illness. Since its establishment in 1982, The Jewish 
Foundation for Group Homes has enabled its residents to be vibrant and 
integrated members of the community. Residents are selected and served 
without regard to race, religion or national origin. JFGH serves more 
than 140 adults with developmental disabilities and chronic mental 
illness in group homes provides assistance to individuals who could not 
otherwise participate in the program.
  I join the community in applauding Bob Cohen for his dedication to 
improving the lives of others and envisioning an establishment that now 
serves as a model worldwide for quality residential services. Since the 
creation of JFGH in 1982, their mission has been clear: To enable 
adults with disabilities to be valued, independent members of the 
community through the support of a home environment; reach out to all 
our community members in need; educate and sensitize the public 
regarding integration of adults with disabilities into the community; 
and encourage communities outside the Greater Washington, D.C. 
Metropolitan Area to implement a similar mission.
  Bob Cohen has been active and integral for every JFGH success and has 
been tireless in securing funding. Today, the JFGH boasts an impressive 
19 group homes, five alternative living units, and 44 apartments which 
serve 154 individuals throughout Maryland, Virginia and the District of 
Columbia.
  Bob Cohen has seen many awards and praise for his leadership and 
dedication to the community: Governor of Maryland Award in 1984, the 
Jewish Federation of Greater Washington in 1994, Washingtonian of the 
year Award in 1986, Co-Honoree for the Housing Opportunities Commission 
of Montgomery County in 1986, the B'Nai Brith Award in 1989, Who's Who 
in the East 1989-1990, Community Service Award from Channel 9 in 1991, 
and he sits on the Advisory Board for Friends of Allison.
  In a time when outstanding humanitarians, activists and leaders seem 
scarce, it is an honor to recognize those who illustrate these 
qualities and learn from their accomplishments. S. Robert Cohen is one 
of these special individuals. May we spread the kindness that he has 
shown to so many.

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