[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 151 (Thursday, November 18, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1984]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING NOVACO AND THE RECIPIENTS OF THE 2010 VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR 
                                 AWARDS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 18, 2010

  Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor NOVACO 
and to recognize the recipients of the 2010 Volunteer of the Year 
Awards.
  NOVACO is committed to helping homeless victims of domestic violence 
become healthy, secure, and self-sufficient. Victims of domestic 
violence often feel that they have no safe place to turn. Fear, 
financial uncertainty, and the feeling of isolation often imprison 
these victims in abusive environments. When a victim breaks free, he or 
she can too easily end up homeless and alone.
  Domestic violence affects every racial, ethnic, and socio-economic 
group. Many of us know a friend, neighbor, or family member who has 
been victimized. More than 15 million children in the United States 
live in families in which partner violence occurred at least once in 
the past year. Each day, 3 women die as a result of domestic violence. 
More than 1 in 4 women will be the victim of domestic abuse in her 
lifetime; more than 3 of 4 Americans know someone who has been 
victimized.
  For more than a decade NOVACO has provided critical services to 
homeless families who have escaped domestic abuse and who are seeking 
to rebuild their lives and become self-sufficient. Assistance is 
provided in many areas including transitional and permanent housing, 
counseling, childcare, education, job training, and life skills 
classes. Through the robust support of area businesses and churches, 
NOVACO has grown into a leader in breaking the cycle of domestic 
violence.
  NOVACO has initiated a number of innovative programs that have 
resulted in significant advancements for those in need. Their ``Good 
Neighbor'' program connects client families with sponsors to assist 
them in transitioning to self sufficiency. Through the financial 
management courses, women have learned how to manage their financial 
affairs, addressing one of the most daunting aspects of escaping 
domestic abuse.
  NOVACO is strengthened by the dedication of its volunteers. I am 
honored to recognize the following 2010 Volunteers of the Year:
  Volunteer of the Year: Joen Schultz
  Volunteer Group of the Year: Gracing Spaces
  Volunteer Business of the Year: Brookfield Homes
  Outstanding Community Support Award: King of Kings Lutheran Church
  Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing 
NOVACO, its volunteers and other supporters for their tireless work on 
behalf of so many who feel stranded and powerless. NOVACO is making a 
difference in our community, and I pledge to continue working with 
NOVACO and similar organizations to put an end to domestic abuse.

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