[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 173 (Monday, November 24, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S15811]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      33RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE FRESNO METRO MINISTRY IN FRESNO, CA

 Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I am pleased to recognize the 33rd 
anniversary of the Fresno Metro Ministry in Fresno, CA.
  More than three decades ago, Fresno Metro Ministry began tackling 
some of Fresno's most difficult social problems. In the 1970's the 
ministry built a coalition of religious and secular organizations that 
worked to alleviate the hardships caused by racism through a variety of 
efforts, ranging from empowerment programs to community projects. 
Through its youth task force the ministry began the alternative 
sentencing program that provided young individuals with alternative 
punishments that worked to redirect their lives in a positive 
direction.
  Understanding that a good home breeds a successful child the ministry 
developed ``Parenting With Justice'' training that helped minority 
parents teach their children to deal with challenges in their lives, 
thereby empowering the entire family.
  As the ministry grew, so did its vision. With its success came a 
broader focus. In the 1980's the Fresno Metro Ministry began to focus 
on city wide issues. The ministry led in the creation of a City of 
Fresno Human Relations Commission that celebrates the rich cultural and 
religious diversity in the Fresno area and mediates differences between 
and among groups. The commission has worked to identify and address 
patterns of discrimination.
  In the last decade, Fresno Metro Ministry became a leader in the 
community hunger coalition. It also helped break a log-jam that slowed 
progress on the construction of the new Regional Medical Center campus 
in downtown Fresno.
  When Fresno and the Central Valley were suffering the effects of the 
1998 freeze, the Fresno Metro Ministry coordinated with other groups to 
provide relief to people who had lost their jobs during this difficult 
time.
  I also want to give special recognition to the leadership of the 
Reverend Walt Parry. For the last 18 years, under Reverend Parry's 
direction, the ministry has made a great difference in the lives of 
many people. He and the Fresno Metro Ministry deserve the recognition 
they are receiving during this 33rd anniversary observance.

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