Special Recognition of the Marsh Foundation's 100th Anniversary

Floor Speech

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Mr. LATTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Marsh Foundation. The Marsh Foundation has a remarkable history within Van Wert and the surrounding community. Over the last 100 years, the Foundation has been committed to its mission of inspiring hope, teaching others, and caring for children and families.

The Marsh Foundation was made possible by the family of George and Hilinda Marsh. George, Hilinda, and their daughter Katie donated their substantial estate for the purpose of helping children and families in need. The concept for the Foundation originated when George and Hilinda were traveling through Van Wert on their way home from Fort Wayne, Indiana when they noticed two small boys huddled together in a dark doorway. Their mother was working that evening, so the boys had to wait during the winter night for her to finish. The sight of the cold, young boys drove the compassionate Marshs to use their resources to help those in need.

Through his will, George Marsh created a foundation to benefit youth in the area. His will provided $5,000,000 for the establishment of the Foundation. During the last 100 years, the Marsh Foundation has provided many services including: on-campus group homes for boys ages ten to seventeen, a specialized residential program for male juvenile sex offenders, a strong network of foster homes, clinical services, an on-campus school for youth in care, and a full-time activities program for youth.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to the Marsh Foundation and its staff, past and present, on this remarkable occasion. By celebrating the one hundredth anniversary, community members and Ohio residents recognize the contribution of the Foundation to our region and community. Congratulations to the Marsh Foundation on this significant milestone.

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