[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 180 (Wednesday, November 1, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1036]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE ST. LOUIS ASSOCIATION OF COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. CORI BUSH

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 1, 2023

  Ms. BUSH. Mr. Speaker, St. Louis and I rise to celebrate the 45th 
anniversary of St. Louis Association of Community Organizations 
(``SLACO''). For over four decades, SLACO has been an instrumental 
force in Missouri's First District by fostering unity and strength 
across our community.
  Founded in 1978 by the visionary Father Gerry Kleba. SLACO has 
evolved into a dynamic coalition of neighborhood associations and 
community organizations and embodies a spirit of collective action and 
resilience. SLACO-s commitment to enhancing the quality of life in St. 
Louis through diverse initiatives such as affordable housing 
production, violence prevention, after-school programming, 
environmental education, and community organizing has left an indelible 
mark on our community.
  Under the current leadership of Executive Director Kevin McKinney. 
SLACO has demonstrated its forward-thinking approach to promoting 
public safety, advancing racial equity, and fostering meaningful 
change. As a connecting force for neighborhoods across the region, the 
organization has emerged as a vital catalyst in shaping dialogue and 
driving impactful societal shifts.
  As the Congresswoman for Missouri's First District and on behalf of 
the entire St. Louis community. it is an honor to celebrate SLACO's 45 
years of resilience, unity, and collaboration. May this anniversary 
serve as a catalyst for further innovation, growth. and meaningful 
endeavors in the years to come.

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