[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 45 (Tuesday, March 11, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H1077]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           CELEBRATING ACCESS INDEPENDENCE'S 40TH ANNIVERSARY

  (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 40th anniversary of 
Access Independence, a dedicated organization serving people with 
disabilities in Virginia's Northern Shenandoah Valley.
  For four decades, Access Independence has been a beacon of hope and 
empowerment, promoting independent living through essential services 
and resources.
  Founded in 1985 as one of 17 centers for independent living in 
Virginia, Access Independence has continuously expanded its impact, 
offering independent living skills training, peer mentoring, 
information and referral, and advocacy services to the counties of 
Clarke, Frederick, Page, Shenandoah, Warren, and the city of 
Winchester.
  Led by Middletown Mayor Charles Harbaugh and guided by core values of 
empowerment, integrity, respect, and equal rights, Access 
Independence's dedicated team has touched thousands of lives. Last year 
alone, it served 678 clients and generously provided over 200 pieces of 
medical equipment to those in need.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Access Independence on 
this significant milestone and wishing them continued success in the 
years ahead.

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