[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 42 (Wednesday, March 9, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E240]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FAIRFAX COUNTY PARK FOUNDATION

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                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 9, 2022

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 20th 
Anniversary of the Fairfax County Park Foundation.
  The Fairfax County Park Foundation has channeled the generosity of 
others into projects that benefit the entirety of Fairfax County.
  The Foundation has provided an avenue for many members of our 
community to give back in a tangible way. As the former Chairman of 
Fairfax County, and now as a Congressman, I understand that nonprofits 
are vital to meeting the needs of our communities that our local and 
federal government cannot. Fortunately, for the past 20 years, the Park 
Foundation has helped to fill some of those gaps in funding for a host 
of park projects throughout the County.
  The Foundation has played a role in many of the district's most 
meaningful events. From funding the 4-H Carnival in Frying Pan Park to 
cleaning the watershed at Hidden Oaks, their work has been admired by 
thousands of families. They collected contributions for open space 
preservation as well, adding to the tens of thousands of acres of 
parkland in the County. Each year, the Foundation's PACT scholarships 
allow children in supportive housing to attend summer camps, and it 
sponsors programs throughout the school year to bring STEM education to 
local students.
  Every year, the Foundation highlights community members and 
organizations that have made outstanding contributions to parks by 
presenting them with the Eakin Philanthropy Award. Congratulations to 
this year's awardees:
  Individual Award: Wayne, Angela, and the Valis Family
  Organization Award: Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home and Fairfax 
Memorial Park
  Friends Group/Park Volunteer Team Award: Friends of Colvin Mill
  Easy access to parks, green spaces, and recreation areas is critical 
to our wellbeing. From improving the health and wellness of residents 
to creating a healthier physical environment, parks are vital to the 
future of America. I commend the Park Foundation for two decades of 
progress and service. I encourage all of you to join me in thanking the 
Park Foundation staff for many amazing years of work. We're looking 
forward to the next twenty years.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the 
Fairfax County Park Foundation for their 20th anniversary. Their 
efforts provide immeasurable benefits to their fellow neighbors and 
serve as a reminder of why Fairfax County remains such a great place to 
live, work, and raise a family.

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