[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 99 (Tuesday, June 21, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E966]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING THE SHEPHERD'S CENTER OF OAKTON-VIENNA

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 21, 2016

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the volunteers of the 
Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna and to thank them for their many 
contributions to the Northern Virginia community. Organized in 1997, 
the Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna (SCOV) 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.
   Every year, approximately 200 volunteers support older residents who 
want to age in place in their homes and stay engaged in social 
activities. Services are available free of charge to anyone age 50 or 
older who resides in the local community.
   Last year was a particularly successful year for SCOV, whose 
volunteer drivers provided more than 1,400 round-trip rides for medical 
reasons and other errands. Volunteers also made regular contact with 
individuals who may have limited interaction and may feel isolated in 
their homes. ``Handy Helpers'' made minor home repairs to help older 
adults keep their homes safe and livable. The Health Team provided 
individual health counseling, referral to community resources, and 
blood pressure readings.
   All told, SCOV served more than 3,000 individuals in 2015. 
Volunteers also run programs such as Lunch n' Life, Adventures in 
Learning, trips and outings, special events, and caregivers' support 
groups. In 2014, SCOV was recognized for these efforts as an 
Outstanding Volunteer Caregiving Program by the National Volunteer 
Caregiving Network.
   The services and programs offered by this extraordinary organization 
help to ensure that our seniors stay connected to the community through 
the promotion of active lifestyles, ongoing social integration, and 
availability of resources for older residents to use and share their 
experience, training, and skills.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the 
Shepherd Center of Oakton-Vienna for its work to 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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