[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 162 (Monday, November 14, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1430-E1431]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING TREE TRUST

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. KEITH ELLISON

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 14, 2016

  Mr. ELLISON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Tree Trust, to 
recognize and commemorate the 40th anniversary of an organization 
devoted to ending joblessness and expanding the urban tree canopy.
   Founded in 1976, Tree Trust was inspired by a simple idea: Improve 
the environment while investing in people. Tree Trust does exactly that 
through reforestation drives, employment training, and environmental 
education programs. They have fought for countless reforms to public 
programs that now provide meaningful opportunities to serve the 
community and connect with the outdoors.
   For 40 years, Tree Trust has transformed lives and landscapes. They 
have planted and distributed nearly 90,000 trees and shrubs while 
investing in over 55,000 youth and adults since their inception. I know 
the quality of Tree Trust's work first hand. Since being elected to 
Congress, I have joined them for many tree plantings and community 
service days. Many summers, I have had the honor to present the 
Governor's awards at their Youth Employment Program Awards Picnic to 
outstanding young people who are improving our community.
   My driving force in Congress is making a more generous, inclusive, 
and sustainable society. I want young people to believe that they have 
the power to make a meaningful change.

[[Page E1431]]

I want adults struggling with unemployment to know that they are 
valuable, important members of community. We as a society will shape 
our vision of tomorrow through action and service. Tree Trust is an 
organization that is leading the way, and I am proud to represent them 
in Congress.
   Once again, congratulations to Tree Trust for 40 years of service. I 
am looking forward to seeing what they accomplish in the next 40 years.

                          ____________________