[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 166 (Wednesday, November 20, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1718]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   CONGRESSIONAL RECOGNITION FOR THE BEACON GROUP AND THE ABILITYONE 
                                PROGRAM

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. RON BARBER

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 20, 2013

  Mr. BARBER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the AbilityOne 
program, which in the last several years has helped more than 48,000 
Americans who are blind or who have significant disabilities gain 
skills and training that ultimately led to gainful employment.
  The AbilityOne Program harnesses the purchasing power of the federal 
government to buy products and services from participating community-
based nonprofit agencies that are dedicated to training and employing 
individuals with disabilities. This program affords Americans with 
significant disabilities opportunities to acquire job skills and 
training, receive good wages and benefits, and gain greater 
independence and quality of life. This program provides essential 
assistance to a segment of the population that has one of the highest 
levels of unemployment in our country.
  I am proud to acknowledge the important work of Beacon Group in 
Tucson. Since 1952, Beacon has provided quality services by employing 
people with disabilities. Their services improve the quality of life, 
alleviate barriers to independence, and help Arizonans of all ages to 
reach their full potential. With the support of the AbilityOne Program, 
Beacon provides and serves over 2,100 people with disabilities each 
year, providing a variety of employment related programs. The direct 
impact of these services on the lives of Americans with disabilities 
cannot be overstated. For an individual with a significant disability 
who has never had the opportunity to work, be independent, participate 
in community life, or contribute to their society; the AbilityOne 
Program and agencies like Beacon are invaluable.
  Mr. Speaker, for these reasons I strongly support the AbilityOne 
Program and Beacon Group. I also want to commend the dedication and 
commitment of Steve King, the President of Beacon and his staff. Their 
work helps people live fuller lives and become more active members of 
the society. I also commend each AbilityOne employee who works every 
day to improve their lives and make our country a better place to live.

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