[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 83 (Friday, May 30, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E880]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SHEPHERD'S CENTER OF ANNANDALE-
                              SPRINGFIELD

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 30, 2014

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 10th anniversary 
of the Shepherd's Center of Annandale-Springfield (SCAS) and to thank 
its volunteers for their many contributions to the Northern Virginia 
community. Established in 2004 by a coalition of religious 
institutions, foundations and non-profits, SCAS is a non-profit 
interfaith organization that provides services to help older adults 
continue living independently. SCAS also offers programs that supply 
opportunities for enrichment, learning, and socialization. Services are 
available free of charge to anyone age 50 or older who resides in the 
local community.
   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. SCAS volunteers 
provide transportation for seniors who need rides to medical 
appointments and other essential activities, ``Handy Helper'' services 
for seniors who need help with basic household tasks, and ``Friendly 
Calls'' to home-bound seniors. Social and enrichment programs include 
bi-monthly luncheons featuring musical programs or guest speakers, day 
trips to local areas of interest, and educational seminars.
   Last year, SCAS volunteers, board members and staff devoted 
approximately 2800 hours of their time to serve our seniors. Drivers 
provided 253 rides for local seniors, taking them mostly to medical 
appointments. More than 225 lunches were served at six Lunch N' Life 
programs. 63 seniors enjoyed day trips to local attractions, and 86 
attended seven-week sessions of Adventures in Learning on subjects such 
as A History of the Early Christian Church, The Civil War, Going Green, 
The War of 1812 and other Lesser Known Wars, Up In Space and Under the 
Sea, and other topics.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the 
Shepherd Center of Annandale-Springfield 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 and 
sponsors who generously dedicate their time, efforts and resources 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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