[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 70 (Wednesday, April 30, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E777]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            CELEBRATING DON BROWN'S LEADERSHIP IN YOUNG LIFE

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                        HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 30, 2008

  Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Don Brown for 
his contribution to the Young Life organization. Following many years 
of passionate, devoted service to the high school students of North 
Texas, Mr. Brown is retiring.
  Don Brown served as a volunteer for Young Life for seven years prior 
to taking over as director of the Lewisville/Flower Mound area branch 
of the organization. Whereas the standard tenure for a leader is five 
years, Don served as the local director for 30 outstanding years.
  Young Life is a non-denominational Christian youth outreach ministry 
for high school students. In 1938, youth leader Jim Rayburn started a 
weekly Christian club in Gainesville, Texas; by 1941, it had evolved 
into a motivational and inspirational group called Young Life. The goal 
of the organization is to introduce young people to Jesus Christ and to 
help them grow in their faith. This occurs by creating an atmosphere in 
which caring adults can build genuine friendships and a connection of 
faith with the young group members. Young Life depends on the 
relationships between the leaders and the students to create a strong 
fellowship within the group, and there is no better example of a 
successful and devoted Young Life leader than Don Brown.
  Mr. Brown facilitates the Young Life assemblies, during which 
attendees watch skits, sing songs, and learn about Christ. Don also 
serves as a confidante, mentor and friend to the students, proving time 
and again that he is a reliable source of information, advice, and 
compassion for those interested in learning.
  I extend my sincerest congratulations to Mr. Brown on his retirement 
and commend his dedication and desire to serve the Young Life 
community. It is an honor to represent such a selfless and civic-minded 
individual in the 26th District of Texas. I know his commitment to the 
youth of North Texas will inspire others to follow his lead.

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