[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 173 (Monday, November 14, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2040-E2041]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN RECOGNITION OF THE HUMANITARIAN CONTRIBUTIONS OF CHARLES L. PERKINS 
                                  SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 14, 2011

  Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend 
Charles L. Perkins, Sr. for his selfless dedication and commitment to 
our community. Charlie was recently honored by Youth for Tomorrow for 
his humanitarian activities, specifically his actions in providing 
food, clothing, and financial support to assist those in need in 
Northern Virginia.
  I have had the privilege of personally knowing Charlie and his wife, 
Marian, for many years. Throughout this time, I have been struck by 
Charlie's persistent efforts to improve the lives of those in our 
community. Charlie, both personally and through his charitable trust 
foundation, has supported numerous organizations including Youth for 
Tomorrow, Homestretch, Legal Services of Northern Virginia, Special 
Olympics, as well as religious organizations that provide a path to 
escape gang violence and feed the hungry.
  In addition to the many contributions to community non-profits, 
Charlie and his foundation provide assistance to individuals who have 
experienced financial hardships due to illness, unemployment or 
monetary shortages. Always looking ahead to build a better life for the 
next generation, the foundation also provides college tuition 
assistance. Charlie's mission is brilliant in its simplicity--to help 
those in need and enhance the dignity and quality of life of 
individuals, families, and communities by seeking out those in need. 
Charlie has more than accomplished this mission, and he has previously 
received the Lions of Virginia Distinguished Humanitarian Award and was 
named the Jobs for Virginia Graduates ``Man of the Decade''.
  Through his own hard work and perseverance, Charlie rose from humble 
beginnings to become a highly successful business owner; however, he 
never rested on his many accomplishments and he always sought to give 
back to the community with great fervor, but little fanfare. In fact, 
Charlie eschews personal recognition, and it is only through the 
insistence of others that his many noble efforts receive the accolades 
they so richly deserve.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues rise to join me in recognizing 
Charles L. Perkins, Sr. and in thanking him for his steadfast support 
of those in need within our community. I personally feel blessed to 
call Charlie a friend, and extend to him my deepest appreciation and 
respect.
    

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