[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 63 (Wednesday, April 30, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E804]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO OATS VOLUNTEERS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. IKE SKELTON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 29, 2003

  Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, let me take this means to pay tribute to 
OATS, Inc., an organization that provides transportation to Missouri's 
rural areas through the use of volunteer service. Founded in 1971, OATS 
has continued to rely heavily on volunteers for fund raising, 
scheduling, and publicity.
  The nation will commemorate the 30th annual National Volunteer Week, 
April 27-May 3, 2003, in recognition and celebration of volunteers at 
the state, local, and national level. The Week's theme, ``Celebrate 
Volunteers--The Spirit of America!'' reflects Americans' resolve to 
maintain the tradition of neighbor helping neighbor. Sponsored by the 
Points of Light Foundation, this annual event is an opportunity for 
organizations to take a moment to thank the many millions of volunteers 
all over America who donate their time to worthy causes.
  In each of the counties that OATS serves, there is a County Support 
Committee comprised of 8-20 people in the community who volunteer on 
behalf of OATS. These volunteers serve as contacts, taking phone calls 
in their home from people who wish to schedule a ride; raise much of 
the funding needed to replace vehicles; and serve as media contacts, 
helping get the word out about OATS and getting the bus schedules 
printed in the local papers. Last January, 639 people reported over 
4,200 hours to OATS, which would cost $46,634.16 if dollar value was 
assessed for the hours they gave.
  Mr. Speaker, the OATS organization provides a valuable service to the 
people of rural Missouri. I know the Members of the House will join me 
in recognizing OATS and their volunteers for their many hours of 
commendable service.

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