[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 129 (Thursday, July 31, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1633]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO RESIDENTIAL OPPORTUNITIES

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. FRED UPTON

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 30, 2008

  Mr. UPTON. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today 
in honor of Residential Opportunities Incorporated of Kalamazoo, 
Michigan, to commemorate their 30th anniversary.
  Residential Opportunities was incorporated in December of 1977 to 
address growing concerns regarding the lack of a standard of care for 
developmentally disabled adults. Based on the principle of 
normalization, Residential Opportunities began establishing group homes 
in an effort to combine an independent living experience with a high 
standard of care. Since that time, ROI has expanded their programs, and 
this year alone has improved the quality of life for 648 people.
  Today, Residential Opportunities operates Homestead Housing Service, 
which helps find safe, affordable housing; Stone Cottage, a 24-hour 
residential and support center for military veterans; and Home Health 
Aide, which provides in-home support to developmentally disabled 
children. In addition to these endeavors, ROI operates 21 group homes 
that currently serve 148 of Southwest Michigan's most vulnerable 
adults.
  I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the staff and 
caregivers of Residential Opportunities Incorporated, whose compassion, 
dedication, and strength has brightened the lives of so many. I am 
confident that the 30 years of good works provided by ROI is just the 
tip of the iceberg, and we can expect many more years of exceptional 
care and service to come.

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