[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 125 (Friday, September 29, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1927]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING CREATIVE BEGINNINGS

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                        HON. ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 29, 2006

  Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor Creative 
Beginnings, a South Florida organization dedicated to assisting women 
and children transition out of homelessness. Since its inception in 
2000, Creative Beginnings has provided case management services on a 
one-to-one basis to provide homeless women with the support they need 
to foster growth, discipline, and self-commitment as they break the 
cycle of homelessness.
  Every woman helped by Creative Beginnings undergoes an intensive 
personalized process aimed at helping them to assess, and care for, 
their own needs. The successful conclusion of this process entails 
reintegration into society. Counseling is offered throughout the 
process to develop and enhance independent basic life skills. These 
include work adjustment, job readiness training, and vocational 
rehabilitation to ensure that the transition out of homelessness is 
permanent. In addition to their own personal network, organizations 
such as the Salvation Army and local places of worship have offered 
their support in helping Creative Beginnings fulfill its goals. Through 
the tireless dedication of Creative Beginning's professional and caring 
staff, numerous homeless women and children have begun the path to 
happy, meaningful, and productive lifestyles.
  My heart goes out to all the employees and volunteers at Creative 
Beginnings, but I would like to personally congratulate and thank 
Executive Director Teresita R. Terron, Secretary Isabel Gonzalez-
Jettinghoff, Treasurer Rose Marie Rojas Marty, and Rev. Fr. Jorge Bello 
for their supreme efforts at making Creative Beginnings what it is 
today.
  The Village of Key Biscayne and the City of Coral Gables have already 
recognized Creative Beginnings for its commitment to homeless women and 
children. Creative Beginnings provides an integral service to our 
community, and plays an invaluable role in the lives of all who those 
who have been aided by their efforts.
  The hard work and individual attention given to every woman is truly 
extraordinary and the entire South Florida community is truly grateful 
for their noble efforts. I congratulate Creative Beginnings for their 
work, and wish them continued success in helping individuals regain 
their rightful places in society.

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