[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 21 (Tuesday, February 3, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E189]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  ACTION IN COMMUNITY THROUGH SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 3, 2009

  Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Action in Community Through Service (ACTS) as an exceptional community 
organization, setting a high standard of service for individuals and 
organizations in Prince William County.
  Established on November 1, 1969, ACTS is guided by the mission to 
alleviate hunger, homelessness, and domestic violence, and help people 
achieve self-support in the Prince William area. A small group of 
dedicated volunteers and clergymen founded ACTS in response to the need 
for coordinated community action. ACTS now serves over 45,000 people a 
year. The organization's growth is a testament to the effectiveness of 
its programs and ability of its staff and volunteers.
  ACTS opened the area's first food bank and first dedicated homeless 
shelter. In 2008, two new facilities opened to accommodate the success 
of ACTS programs. The Eastern Prince William Safe House provides refuge 
for victims of domestic violence, and the new Family Services Center 
offers job counseling and life skills classes to women, children and 
families struggling with the hardships of homelessness. These 
facilities will help to restore hope and opportunity to those whom 
otherwise would endure pain and isolation.
  ACTS continually receives top marks for program efficiency and 
delivers results that genuinely change lives. Citizens hoping to 
improve their community and the lives of their neighbors have a capable 
partner in ACTS.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues to join me in expressing 
our gratitude for this organization's accomplishments and their 
steadfast commitment to charity.

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