[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 61 (Monday, April 28, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E596]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING SOUTHWESTERN ILLINOIS COLLEGE'S PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR 
                             OLDER PERSONS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. WILLIAM L. ENYART

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 28, 2014

  Mr. ENYART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor 
Southwestern Illinois College's Programs and Services for Older Persons 
and to congratulate this organization on 40 years of service. As their 
founders, partners and members gather to celebrate 40 years of 
unparalleled service to southwestern Illinois, I ask all my colleagues 
to join me in honoring this organization.
  Founded by Eugene Verdu, Programs and Services for Older Persons 
began as a Preparation for Retirement class in 1970 at then Belleville 
Area College. This led to a federal grant for the Retired Senior 
Volunteer Program in 1973. Additional Federal, State and local grants 
provided a myriad of services, activities and opportunities for people 
over the age of 55.
  Under the administrative leadership of the General Studies and 
Community Services division, with full support from the BAC Board of 
Trustees, an office for PSOP was established in late 1973. This new 
office was responsible for administering all college activities related 
to the field of aging. Today, PSOP is part of SWIC Community Services.
  In the early years, PSOP was housed in a rented facility. By 1979, 
more space was needed, so the city of Belleville purchased the building 
that now houses PSOP at 201 N. Church St. A lease-purchase agreement 
was established between the city of Belleville and BAC and by 1999, the 
cost of the building was paid in full and the college now owns the 
facility.
  Today, PSOP's mission is to provide a comprehensive program of direct 
and referral services to seniors and their families, designed to assist 
them in maximizing their health and independence. PSOP's programming is 
directed at healthy aging and enjoying a rewarding lifestyle for those 
55 and beyond, allowing them to ``age in place'' and remain independent 
as long as possible. PSOP's myriad of programs and services focus on 
engagement in social and recreational activities as well as travel and 
cultural activities to stimulate lifelong learning. Multiple volunteer 
programs provide seniors opportunities to serve others.
  Mr. Speaker, on their 40th anniversary, I am pleased to honor 
Southwestern Illinois College's Programs and Services for Older Persons 
for their service to southwestern Illinois. I ask my colleagues to join 
me in honoring this organization and wishing them continued success as 
they continue to serve the people of our area.

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