[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 151 (Tuesday, September 20, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E958]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE NORTH BAY REGIONAL CENTER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 20, 2022

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor 
North Bay Regional Center for 50 years of service to individuals with 
intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. This 
organization has demonstrated their commitment to helping those in need 
by providing the resources necessary for these individuals and their 
families to thrive.
  The North Bay Regional Center is part of a system of centers that 
were created in 1965 and spread throughout the State of California. 
This center was founded in 1972, and specifically provides services to 
individuals in Napa, Solano, and Sonoma County. The priority of the 
center is to provide support for these individuals and their families 
through the Early Start program and the Lanterman Act program.
  Early Start is focused on helping children under 3 years old who have 
or are more at risk of experiencing a developmental disability. These 
children are given the tools they need to thrive in their home 
environments and other areas they may frequent. The Lanterman Act 
program is concentrated on supporting individuals who are 3 years old 
or older. Combined, these programs provide continual support and 
continue to advocate for these individuals from birth to late 
adulthood.
  Over 10,000 individuals are receiving help from the North Bay 
Regional Center alone. As a result, individuals with various 
disabilities are able to gain access to the resources they need to 
become more independent and included in their community.
  The North Bay Regional Center has played an important role in the 
lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities 
by encouraging the involvement of these individuals in their own 
communities, which in turn will only continue to encourage growth and 
inclusivity.
  Madam Speaker, it is evident that North Bay Regional Center has been 
instrumental in providing support to the people that it serves. 
Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor it here today.

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