[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 98 (Wednesday, June 12, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E761]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING THE SHEPHERD'S CENTER OF OAKTON-VIENNA

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                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 12, 2019

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize 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. Services are available free of charge to anyone age 50 
or older who resides in the local community.
  Last year, 250 volunteers provided 3,000 hours of service to the 
Northern Virginia community. Volunteer drivers provided more than 900 
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. 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. This year, a number of volunteers are 
receiving awards for their dedicated service to the community through 
the Shepherd's Center and its programs. It is my honor to include in 
the Record the names of the following individuals:
  Bob Abbott, Jean Bastien, Marsha Komandt, Jerry O'Shaughnessy, Lynn 
Rafferty, Lynn Rhoads, Burt Sharp, Wanda Snuggs, Kathy Tugenhadt, Pat 
Wood.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking 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 truly deserving of our highest praise.

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