[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 149 (Tuesday, September 24, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E963]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING SHELLY McLAREN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ZACHARY NUNN

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 24, 2024

  Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
celebrate the exceptional work demonstrated by Shelly McLaren, who 
selflessly dedicates her life to ensuring individuals feel comfort 
following life-altering events across the State of Iowa and the United 
States. This remarkable woman demonstrates an exceptional volunteer 
commitment to serve our communities. As the team lead for the Iowa 
chapter of Crisis Response Canines (CRC), a national nonprofit that 
provides comfort visits and crisis response support following traumatic 
incidents, she has made an indelible mark on Iowa communities and 
beyond.
  Her dedication to rigorous training has earned both her and her 
canine partner, Jacks, the highest certifications. Embracing the credo 
``Purpose Beyond Oneself,'' she is committed to selflessly caring for 
those experiencing life-altering traumatic events.
  She consistently shows an unparalleled ability to mobilize swiftly in 
response to crises, coordinating with operations leaders to support 
those impacted by critical incidents. During these interactions, she 
and Jacks bring their healing, compassionate presence to individuals 
enduring the most traumatic events of their lives. Their deployments 
include responding to the January 4, 2024, shooting in Perry, Iowa; 
assisting in Minden and Greenfield, Iowa, following spring 2024 
tornadoes; and most recently, aiding multiple counties in northwestern 
Iowa after severe storms and flooding.
  When not responding to tragic events, she and Jacks are a well-known 
and respected team, visiting community organizations and attending 
special events.
  Her work has inspired others to join, creating a ripple effect that 
strengthens the community's ability to respond to crises effectively. 
The countless lives touched by her compassion and dedication serve as a 
testament to the lasting impact of her volunteerism.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating this 
remarkable woman and Jacks for their service to the State of Iowa and 
the Third Congressional District.

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