[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 63 (Wednesday, April 18, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E500]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING GERARD PLACE AND ITS DEDICATED ADVOCATES DURING NATIOAL 
                            VOLUNTEER MONTH

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                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 18, 2018

  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as we recognize 
April as National Volunteer Month to call special and deserved 
recognition to Gerard Place and its dedicated advocates.
  Gerard Place opened its doors and its heart to a community in need in 
2000, under the auspices of twelve Congregations of Women Religious in 
my hometown of Buffalo, New York. These Women of Faith brought a closed 
city corner back to life for homeless single parents and children 
through counseling, education, employment, housing and life skills 
training.
  With its core values ingrained in the organization's building blocks 
of compassion, reverence, integrity and collaboration, Gerard Place's 
programs have been highly successful as more than 90 percent have 
transitioned to independent housing.
  Statistics are a required reporting tool of course, but Gerard 
Place's real impact is found in the faces and heard in the stories of 
second chances given and opportunities seized by women now living 
productive, purposeful lives. With individualized, intensive support, 
families are strengthened, careers are pursued and a better future is 
within reach.
  Understanding the work is never complete, Gerard Place is expanding 
its offerings with the rehabilitation of the Community Center to bring 
classroom space, job readiness training and quality childcare to the 
neighborhood.
  As is the case in so many of our mission driven non-profits, the 
leadership and staff of Gerard Place will be the first to share that so 
much of what has been achieved and so much that is left to do is only 
possible thanks to the tireless dedication of its amazing volunteers.
  It is a belief I share as a true example of how lives are changed by 
those inspiring people among us who give their time, talent and 
treasure back to their communities. Without the more than 100 
volunteers devoting more than 6,000 hours annually in a multitude of 
roles including engagement with program participants, staff support, 
event organization and board membership, the goals of Gerard Place 
would be unattainable.
  Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to acknowledge and add my thanks to the 
outstanding volunteers of Gerard Place for everyday of every month they 
give hope and help to those they selflessly serve in our community.

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