[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 57 (Monday, May 2, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E769]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF 10,000 DEGREES

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                          HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 2, 2011

  Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 30th 
anniversary of 10,000 Degrees, a unique Marin County nonprofit formed 
to connect low-income students with the resources necessary to make 
their college dreams a reality. Established on the principle that 
educational equity is both the foundation and the responsibility of a 
strong community, 10,000 Degrees has already made an invaluable 
contribution to the future of Marin County.
  Originally known as Marin Education Fund, 10,000 Degrees targets 
youth of all ages to ensure that their image of a college education is 
one of possibility. No one should be denied the opportunity to excel in 
school simply because of personal or financial circumstances, and no 
society can afford to squander the talent and ambition of its young 
people simply because they are allowed to question their future.
  10,000 Degrees offers programs to empower our students. For those in 
elementary or middle school, it makes introductions to local college 
campuses and to positive role models pursuing higher education. For 
those in high school, it offers scholarships, financial aid training, 
and a number of intensive college preparation and mentorship seminars 
that set students on the path to college.
  In keeping with its commitment to equity, 10,000 Degrees is 
particularly effective in targeting those students most at risk of 
leaving the educational system. It tailors programs to low-income and 
first-generation graduates, building linkages between peers struggling 
with the same barriers to success, and earning an enviable track record 
in the process. Every one of the students in its mentorship program has 
graduated high school, 98 percent have enrolled in college, and 84 
percent have graduated.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in congratulating 10,000 Degrees on 
its 30th anniversary in Marin. It is organizations such as these that 
strengthen and enrich our county, and we are grateful to them for their 
passion, their expertise, and their dedication to our community.

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