[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 159 (Friday, October 4, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1244]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ORANGE COUNTY CONSERVATION CORPS

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                          HON. J. LUIS CORREA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 4, 2019

  Mr. CORREA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the achievements of 
the Orange County Conservation Corps (OCCC), now celebrating their 25th 
anniversary. Founded in 1993, the OCCC provides at-risk and 
disadvantaged youth a chance to learn valuable skills while giving back 
to their community. The OCCC is considered a ``Second Chance at 
Success,'' ultimately ensuring a positive life for our youth.
  The OCCC provides youth with a pathway to earning a high-school 
diploma, via an on-site charter school. By embracing a culture of 
teamwork and cooperation, the OCCC instills a strong work ethic in our 
youth, providing experience and job skills that will make them valuable 
members of our workforce.
  Since 1993, OCCC has served more than 8,000 young adults, recycled 
9,000 tons of recyclable materials, and planted over 120,000 trees. 
Preserving our environment empowers our youth, allowing them to help 
others and positively affect our community. These students can develop 
their educational, professional, and personal skills.
  OCCC has provided corpsmembers with more than $1.5 million in 
financial assistance. Over 3,000 high school diplomas and job training 
certificates have been provided to corpsmembers to seek higher 
education. OCCC's Corps-to-Career Specialist assists students in 
transitioning from the corps to their future goals by introducing them 
to local colleges, trade schools, and ROP programs. Corpsmembers learn 
resume writing, interviewing skills, and a professional demeanor that 
will prepare them for a bright future.
  Today, we celebrate not only 25 years of success for OCCC, but we 
honor its future. A future that continues to uphold the values of hard-
work, teamwork, and service. It is for these reasons that I ask my 
colleagues to join me in honoring and recognizing the Orange County 
Conservation Corps for their commitment to our youth and our 
communities.

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