[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 145 (Wednesday, November 14, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1753]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN HONOR OF COMMUNITY FOUNDATIONS WEEK

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                           HON. AARON SCHOCK

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 14, 2012

  Mr. SCHOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Community 
Foundations Week, and to recognize the millions of Americans who have 
joined together throughout our nation's history to support charitable 
causes in their communities. This spirit of generosity is a central 
tenet of the American spirit, and the good work done by the over 650 
community foundations in the United States is evidence of the good that 
can be achieved when communities come together in support of a common 
cause.
  Established in 1989, observation of Community Foundations Week has 
served to draw more attention to the work done by Community Foundations 
across the country. In my home state of Illinois alone, there are 26 
community foundations. I would like to highlight some of the work done 
by just 2 of them in Central Illinois. The Galesburg Community 
Foundation, for example, funds a variety of programs that are 
strengthening their community and helping those who have nowhere else 
to turn. One of their most innovative projects is called KnoxCorps. 
This project teams with local Knox College to place graduates at local 
non-profits to provide human capacity for initiatives and causes that 
affect the greater Galesburg area. The placements last for one year, 
but the impact that has already been achieved is much more far 
reaching. This partnership has kept some of the best and the brightest 
in this small rural community, contributing to positive economic 
development, stronger communities, and a thriving spirit of service.
  In the 18th District we have the Community Foundation of Central 
Illinois, which operates out of my hometown of Peoria. One focus for 
them is Community Needs Grants, given to local non profits to aid them 
in their service to the area. For example, in 2011, CFCI partnered with 
the American Red Cross Central Illinois Chapter with a Community Needs 
Grant that allowed the continuance of free youth education classes. 
These classes have educated over 35,000 youth on how to prepare for 
emergencies, prevent injuries, and make healthy choices. With the help 
of the grant, the program was enhanced by the addition of a puppet show 
to better connect with the children and provide an interactive learning 
experience.
  These two examples are just a small snapshot of the extraordinary 
work done by these two organizations, as well as organizations like 
them around Illinois and the nation. I am honored to recognize all 
Community Foundations this week for the outstanding work they do fifty-
two weeks a year.

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