[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 95 (Thursday, June 21, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1101]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNITED WAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID LOEBSACK

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 21, 2012

  Mr. LOEBSACK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 125th 
Anniversary of the United Way.
  In 1887 in Denver, Colorado, a local woman, a priest, two ministers 
and a rabbi came together to work to solve the poverty facing their 
community. The first United Way formed a network of organizations to 
support local charities as well as to coordinate relief services, 
counsel and refer clients to cooperating agencies, and make emergency 
assistance grants to those most in need. The group of networks rose 
from humble beginnings and became the United Way, a united movement 
committed to improving communities around the world.
  What they began 125 years ago now comprises nearly 1,800 community-
based United Ways in 41 countries and territories. Today the United Way 
is the world's largest privately-sponsored nonprofit.
  Today, United Way continues the spirit of service to move toward a 
world where all individuals and families achieve their human potential 
through education, income stability and healthy lives. Every year the 
United Way raises nearly $5 billion dollars for the simple purpose to 
advance the common good. Working collaboratively, the United Way brings 
together the actions of millions of individuals to resolve pressing 
community issues. As a worldwide organization, it is remarkable how 
effective the United Way is at targeting local initiatives and bringing 
tangible services to our communities.
  We must also attribute 125 years of United Way's success to the 
imaginative, passionate group of leaders, community volunteers, and 
partners on the local and state level. Today, United Ways in Iowa's 2nd 
District are working diligently to ensure the scope and depth of United 
Way's vision is applied to the specific needs of individuals and local 
charities in our community. United Way of East Central Iowa, United Way 
of Johnson County, Inc., United Way of Wapello County, and Burlington/
W. Burlington Area United Way continue to give, advocate, and volunteer 
to help people in need. On United Way's 125th Anniversary, we commend 
our local United Ways' commitment and contributions that effectively 
make a difference every day in our community.

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