[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 121 (Thursday, September 30, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1750]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         REVISING AND EXTENDING BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                             HON. RON KIND

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 28, 2004

  Mr. KIND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of S. 2363, 
legislation to further the support of the Boys and Girls Clubs of 
America. As a former participant of the Boys and Girls Clubs, I know 
first hand how successful it is in giving young people a sense of 
usefulness, belonging, and influence. Today, my two little boys, Johnny 
and Matthew, participate in this organization's flag football, 
baseball, and basketball leagues. I have seen that it provides young 
people with a safe place to learn, establish strong relationships, and 
build good character.
  The Boys and Girls Clubs of America has been ranked number one among 
youth organizations for the tenth straight year, and has been listed as 
15th among all nonprofit organizations. It is the nation's fastest-
growing youth development organization with a primary focus on young 
people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
  It serves more than 4 million boys and girls through 3,400 club 
locations, which are located in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, the Virgin 
Islands, and both domestic and international military bases. Sixty-five 
percent of the children that participate in the Boys and Girls Clubs 
are from minority backgrounds. The wide reach of this organization 
helps all types of children develop creativity through the arts, a 
healthy lifestyle through fitness activities, and a career through 
educational, character, and leadership programs.
  Having served on the Board of Directors for the La Crosse Boys and 
Girls Clubs, I know the amount of time and hard work that goes into 
operating this organization. I would like to thank Terry Erickson, the 
current director of the La Crosse Boys and Girls Clubs, who has served 
since I was a participant. Terry has taken the La Crosse Club to 
heights never before imaginable. He has become synonymous with the Club 
and a role model to everyone involved.
  I would also like to thank Natalie Carlise for providing the 
enthusiasm at the relatively new Boys and Girls Clubs of Sparta. Terry, 
Natalie, and their staff provide a safe and nurturing atmosphere for 
the children of western Wisconsin. Their commitment to the Boys and 
Girls Clubs is greatly appreciated by volunteers, parents, and 
especially the children at the Clubs. I cannot thank them enough for 
their selfless giving of time, and love for our children.
  Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to support this legislation on the floor 
today, to extend the authorization of this important program for our 
children who represent the future of our country.

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