[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 122 (Thursday, July 30, 2015)]
[Senate]
[Page S6181]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         RECOGNIZING NEVADA PEP

  Mr. REID. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Nevada PEP for its 
more than 20 years of service to children with disabilities and their 
families.
  Nevada PEP was founded more than two decades ago by a handful of 
families who wanted for their children what every parent wants for 
their child: the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed in all areas 
of life, regardless of their ability. Since then, this organization has 
helped children with disabilities by increasing opportunities for home, 
community, and school success. Although Nevada PEP started as a small 
organization with meetings around a kitchen table, the organization has 
now served more than 17,000 people throughout the State and has had a 
positive impact on many more Nevadans through its greater advocacy 
efforts.
  The ``PEP'' in the organization's name has a number of meanings, 
including, ``Parents Encouraging Parents,'' ``Parents Educating 
Professionals,'' and ``Professionals Empowering Parents.'' Nevada PEP 
truly embodies all of these meanings through the services it provides. 
The organization offers support groups, webinars, and other skill-
building activities to help the families of children with disabilities 
become effective advocates for their child. Nevada PEP also works to 
connect families to essential community resources, including 
organizations and professionals in the fields of education, health 
care, housing, and employment. Additionally, the organization raises 
awareness and engages the community through events, such as the ``Baldy 
Bash,'' the ``Run, Walk, Roll Against Bullying,'' and an annual art 
show.
  I applaud Nevada PEP for their years of dedicated service to children 
with disabilities and their families. Their work is truly appreciated 
and admired. I also commend Karen Taycher, a parent and passionate 
advocate, as well as founding member and the executive director of 
Nevada PEP, for her fine leadership throughout the past two decades. As 
Nevada PEP begins the next chapter, I wish them continued success for 
years to come.

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