[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 76 (Wednesday, May 7, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E397-E398]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING JERRY PHILLIPS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 7, 2025

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding 
contributions that Jerry Phillips has made through his volunteerism 
with the Area Agency on Aging of Pinellas and Pasco Counties. Jerry 
Phillips began his journey with the SHINE program in 2013 and with his 
easy manner and tremendous amount of patience he has put Pasco & 
Pinellas residents at ease about their Medicare options. SHINE, 
(Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a statewide, volunteer-
based program offering free Medicare and Health insurance education, 
counseling, and assistance to people with Medicare and their families 
and caregivers.
  Since 2013, Jerry has demonstrated his commitment and dedication to 
serving seniors through the SHINE Program. Jerry has provided more than 
2,000 hours volunteering since 2013. He continues to educate seniors 
and people with disabilities about Medicare ensuring they have the best 
possible

[[Page E398]]

healthcare. Since 2013, Jerry has also served as the Pasco County Local 
Coordinator for SHINE Volunteers within the Area Agency on Aging as 
well as a Florida Statewide SHINE Trainor. He has traveled around the 
state for the Florida Department of Elder Affairs educating SHINE 
Volunteers. Jerry is a true advocate and can be relied on to accept any 
challenges that arise.
  In addition to Volunteering with the SHINE program he is a Lay Pastor 
in his church and has spent time assisting with Metropolitan 
Ministries, the Shepard Center in Tarpon Springs, Cares Senior Center, 
and other non-profit organizations. He also volunteers with the 
Supervisor of Elections and as an election worker during the voting 
season. In addition to his volunteer work, his wife Phyllis, who is his 
high school sweetheart of 50+ years, and his children and grandchildren 
keep him busy.
  It is clear Jerry Phillips has made a profoundly positive impact on 
our community, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to 
serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

                          ____________________