[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 121 (Wednesday, July 29, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1186]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING JIM THEOFELIS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ADAM SMITH

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 29, 2015

  Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the work and 
achievements of Jim Theofelis, Founder and Executive Director of The 
Mockingbird Society.
  With an eye towards the future, Mr. Theofelis founded The Mockingbird 
Society in 2001--which has worked to improve the foster care system as 
well as end youth homelessness for the past 14 years. The organization 
stands on the principle that all young people deserve the right to 
reach adulthood in a healthy, supportive environment with the 
opportunity to thrive in life.
  As Executive Director of The Mockingbird Society, Jim and his team 
successfully advocated for a number of policies aimed at reforming the 
child welfare system. Under Jim's leadership, The Mockingbird Society 
pushed for legislation that allowed youth to seal their juvenile 
records, so they will not be automatically disqualified in obtaining 
employment and housing. The Mockingbird Society also advocated for 
extended foster care and access to medical care for youth, which 
established the organization as a strong national presence on juvenile 
policy issues.
  Prior to his work at The Mockingbird Society, Jim earned a MAEd from 
Seattle University and served in various positions dedicated to helping 
youth and families ranging from direct service to senior management. 
Overall, he has spent nearly 35 years working with and advocating for 
disadvantaged children and youth--specifically in mental health--and 
has been widely recognized for his hard work and selfless commitment to 
youth causes. Of his many awards, Jim received the 2011 Jefferson 
Award, our country's longest standing and most prestigious celebration 
of public service--a testament to his commitment to the community.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I recognize the work Mr. 
Theofelis has done to reform the child welfare system in our state and 
in our nation. Jim's unrelenting and passionate dedication to 
advocating for vulnerable youth serves as an example of the tremendous 
impact one outstanding person can have on his community.

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