[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 101 (Tuesday, June 14, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E616]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    CELEBRATING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SPRINGS LEARNING CENTER

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                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 14, 2022

  Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, in a year which marks the 200th 
anniversary of the Dominican Sisters ministry in United States, the 
Dominican Sisters of Peace, who make their home in City of New Haven, 
are marking a special milestone--the 20th Anniversary of the Springs 
Learning Center. Over the course of the last two decades, the Center 
has become an invaluable resource to our community, and, in particular 
to the immigrants who have chosen to make the Greater New Haven area 
their home.
  Education has always been a core component of the work of the 
Dominican Sisters of Peace. Indeed, they have provided educational and 
pastoral services in New Haven since 1901 in elementary, secondary, and 
college programs. Recognizing the growing adult literacy and English as 
a Second Language needs in the community, the Dominican Sisters opened 
Springs Learning Center in 2002 to continue their educational mission 
in the Fair Haven area.
  Since opening its doors just twenty years ago, the Springs Learning 
Center has helped over one thousand learners improve their English 
language skills--and all with the assistance of over one hundred 
volunteer tutors, come of whom have been with the Center since the very 
beginning. These dedicated tutors have opened new doors of opportunity 
to those they have served, helping them to boost their employment and 
business development prospects, enhance their contributions to the 
community, and assist them in their pursuit of citizenship.
  As the child of an immigrant, I understand the challenges these 
families can face as they try to acclimate to a new community and a new 
country. My father, Ted DeLauro, came to this country as a child and 
when his teachers and fellow classmates made fun of him for not 
immediately understanding the English language, he left school. He was 
just in 7th grade at the time. He was self-taught but never forgot his 
struggles and he dedicated much of his time as an adult helping other 
Italian immigrants translate documents and to learn the language. I can 
remember the visible relief and gratitude of each person and family he 
helped--it is that same remarkable gift that the Dominican Sisters and 
the volunteers at the Springs Learning Center give to each immigrant 
who seeks their help.
  It is an honor for me to rise today to extend my sincere 
congratulations to the Dominican Sisters of Peace and the many 
volunteers and supporters of the Springs Learning Center as they 
celebrate their 20th Anniversary. My heartfelt thanks for their 
invaluable service, and very best wishes for many more years of 
success.

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