[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 188 (Thursday, November 29, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1580-E1581]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        CELEBRATING THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF A PLACE CALLED HOME

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                       HON. LUCILLE ROYBAL-ALLARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 29, 2018

  Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 25th 
anniversary of A Place Called Home, a nonprofit organization in South 
Los Angeles which provides a safe, nurturing environment for local 
youth and families.
  Debrah Constance created A Place Called Home in 1993 to provide a 
safe haven for teens needing to escape gang violence on the streets of 
South Central L.A. From its humble beginnings in the basement of a 
church, the organization has grown into a beacon of hope and 
opportunity that has served more than 20,000 young people and their 
families.
  Today, under the leadership of executive director Jonathan Zeichner 
and a committed board of directors and staff, A Place Called Home 
offers programs that prepare young people for employment or higher 
education. These young people also receive opportunities to access 
counseling, tutoring, college scholarships, vocational preparation, and 
internships. The organization offers classes for parents as well.
  A Place Called Home is a focal point for many community activities. 
Its Marion Brucker Community Auditorium hosts a theater program, as 
well as cultural events, town hall meetings, and candidate debates. The 
organization also hosts events for the community throughout the year, 
including meals and distributions of food, beds, clothing, books, toys, 
and school supplies.
  In addition, A Place Called Home teaches the importance of civic and 
community engagement, and provides opportunities for community service 
throughout the year. It also features three gardens where young people 
grow and harvest organic fruits, vegetables and flowers.
  As A Place Called Home reaches 25 years of service, it remains fully 
committed to elevating the lives and futures of young people growing up 
in challenging circumstances, so they can become the leaders, healers, 
teachers, scientists, farmers, and builders our country needs. The 
organization embraces social and economic justice for all. It stands 
for the rights and well-being of all peoples, no matter who they are, 
where they come from, or how they worship.
  Mr. Speaker, in recognition of all the students, families, and 
communities helped by A Place Called Home, I urge my colleagues to join 
me in congratulating this distinguished organization on its 25th 
anniversary. I wish A Place Called Home the very best as it continues 
its mission of helping underserved

[[Page E1581]]

youth improve their economic conditions and lead healthy, fulfilling, 
and purposeful lives.

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