[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 146 (Monday, October 3, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1737]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 COMMEMORATING REVEREND WILLIE G. DIXON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. KATHY CASTOR

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 3, 2011

  Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of his 80th 
birthday milestone, I rise to commend the inspirational leadership of 
Reverend Willie G. Dixon. Reverend Dixon is a wonderful example of how 
a local leader can help shape future generations and make a difference 
in their community. Reverend Dixon's accomplishments are worthy of 
recognition by the entire Tampa community.
  A native of Tampa, Florida, Reverend Dixon entered the Air Force upon 
completion of high school. After serving our country, Dixon was 
honorably discharged and enrolled at Tennessee State University where 
he received a Bachelor of Science in Music Education. He then moved 
back to the Tampa area, where he was employed by the Hillsborough 
County School Board as an elementary school music teacher and band 
director for six years.
  Reverend Dixon then went on to pursue a career helping ex-offenders 
at the Zephyrhills Correctional Institution. As an ex-offender 
placement specialist, Dixon assisted inmates preparing for release and 
later served in the same capacity at Pasco-Hernando Community College. 
While employed in this career, he continued to work in area school 
systems until his retirement from the Sarasota County School System in 
1991.
  While teaching in Hillsborough and Sarasota County, Reverend Dixon 
realized that a large percentage of his students were African American 
repeat offenders who were unable to gain reentry into society 
financially and socially. Dixon developed a strong desire to help these 
youths that experienced difficulty getting back on track after release 
due to a number of factors such as broken homes, various types of abuse 
and lack of education.
  In response to this calling, Dixon formed COACH Foundation, Inc. and 
the COACH Faith Based Ministry. COACH Foundation, Inc. has numerous 
programs that help inmates make a smooth transition into society and 
become productive citizens. These programs include after-school 
programs, job training, counseling, affordable home-ownership as well 
as many other services that benefit the community. Reverend Dixon's 
individual efforts continue to touch lives with his partnership with 
the Abe Brown Prison Ministry and weekly bible study with inmates at 
the Zephyrhills Correctional Institution.
  The Tampa Community is proud to recognize Reverend Willie G. Dixon 
for his efforts and outstanding contributions towards educating and 
guiding youth in Tampa. Reverend Dixon's determination and commitment 
to improving the lives of others have made him an inspirational 
community leader. I ask that you and all Americans recognize such a 
remarkable citizen for his service to our community.

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