[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 81 (Monday, June 14, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1097]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE EASTER SEALS GOODWILL INDUSTRIES REHABILITATION CENTER ON 
                          ITS 35TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 14, 2004

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker 35 years ago, a historic merger occurred 
which resulted in the creation of the Easter Seals Goodwill Industries 
Rehabilitation Center. Today, community leaders, supporters, advocates, 
and participants have gathered to mark this very special occasion. It 
is with my heart-felt thanks and sincere appreciation that I rise today 
to join them in celebrating this important milestone.
  What began as three separate agencies has become one of the most 
successful and effective non-profit agencies in the Greater New Haven 
area. This community-based organization is committed to its mission to 
enhance employment opportunities and the quality of life for people 
with disabilities and other special needs. Throughout the years, as 
communities advanced, those needs have changed. As an organization 
rooted in the community, the Center has been able to identify those 
changes and adapt its programs and services to meet them. This could 
not have been accomplished without the strength of support the Center 
has received from its staff and the communities of Greater New Haven.
  I would be remiss if I did not recognize the vision and leadership of 
the man who has been leading this agency for the last twenty years--
Malcolm Gill. For the last two decades, Mal has worked diligently to 
ensure that the Center is providing the programs and services that meet 
the needs of their participants. There is no one who could be more 
dedicated to fulfilling the mission of the organization. I consider 
myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with him so 
closely over the years and to call him my friend.
  For people with disabilities and other special needs, functioning in 
the daily activities that we take for granted is not only challenging, 
but it can be a source of frustration and heartache. While these men 
and women have a deep desire to contribute to the community, physical 
or mental limitations make that difficult to accomplish. That is why 
the Center has become such a fundamental part of our community. They 
provide a gift which is truly invaluable--the opportunity for success 
and a sense of belonging. The Center has touched the lives of thousands 
over the years and mere words cannot describe the difference they have 
made to those individuals.
  For the innumerable contributions it has made to our community, it is 
with great pride that I stand today to extend my sincere 
congratulations to the Easter Seals Goodwill Industries Rehabilitation 
Center on its 35th Anniversary. Through their unparalleled dedication 
and commitment, they have helped to change the face of our community 
and have made it a better place for our children and families.

                          ____________________