[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 68 (Wednesday, May 7, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E705]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE VOLUNTEERS OF THE SHEPHERD CENTER OF OAKTON-VIENNA

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                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 7, 2014

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the volunteers of the 
Shepherd Center of Oakton-Vienna and to thank them for their many 
contributions to the Northern Virginia community. Organized in 1997, 
the Shepherd Center of Oakton-Vienna is a non-profit that provides 
services to help older adults continue living independently, and it 
offers programs that supply opportunities for enrichment, learning, and 
socialization.
   The center works to support older residents who want to age in place 
in their homes and to engage them in social activities. Every year, 
approximately 200 volunteers for the Shepherd Center serve as medical 
drivers, companion drivers, friendly callers and visitors, health and 
wellness counselors, fundraisers, and grant writers. These volunteers 
run programs such as Lunch n' Life, Adventures in Learning, trips and 
outings, special events, and caregivers' support groups. Services are 
available free of charge to anyone age 50 or older who resides in the 
local community.
   The Shepherd's Center has also been recognized as ``One of the 
Best'' 2012-13 by the Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington 
and the 2012 Nonprofit of the Year award from the Vienna-Tysons 
Regional Chamber of Commerce. The services and programs offered by this 
extraordinary organization help to ensure that our seniors stay 
connected to the community through promotion of active lifestyles, 
ongoing social integration, and availability of resources for older 
residents to use their experience, training, and skills in significant 
roles in society.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the 
Shepherd Center of Oakton-Vienna for the services which enable older 
adults in our community to age in place and enjoy their golden years 
with dignity and independence. I thank the many volunteers who 
generously dedicate their time and efforts to the welfare of our 
neighbors. The value of their contributions cannot be overstated and 
are deserving of our highest praise.

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