[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 6]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 8771]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


       IN HONOR OF BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

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                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 8, 2012

  Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take the time today to 
commemorate the 30 years of dedication and service provided by Big 
Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Cruz County. Through its mentoring 
services, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Cruz County has been a 
leader in prevention-based services to over 4,500 children and youth in 
our community since its founding in 1982.
  By working to increase their sense of self-esteem and confidence, Big 
Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Cruz County has proven effective in 
keeping children and youth in school, away from drugs and alcohol, out 
of the juvenile justice system, and, thus able to make healthier, more 
constructive life choices.
  Youth matched to Big Brothers or Big Sisters have been provided with 
caring, supportive, and positive adult role models who offer 
opportunities and options not otherwise available. Thousands of 
volunteer hours have been spent by carefully screened and trained 
mentors who provide one-on-one guidance, friendship, positive role-
modeling, and support to youth in Santa Cruz County.
  The commitment of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Cruz County 
grants not only newfound opportunities and support to at-risk youth, 
but a sense of purpose and satisfaction to those who guide them, 
resulting in the enrichment of the family as well as the greater 
community. As is their goal, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Cruz 
County has and will continue to create new opportunities to place 
appropriate mentors with youth from the increasing number of families 
in need.
  The continued success of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Cruz 
County can be attributed to the dedicated staff and volunteers who have 
helped generate support and enthusiasm in our community and who have 
worked admirably for the benefit of others.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of myself and my colleagues in the House, I 
would like to thank and congratulate the staff and volunteers of Big 
Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Cruz County on 30 wonderful years of 
service.

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