Recognizing Ms. Martha Maner

Floor Speech

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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary contributions of a remarkable community leader in my district, Ms. Martha Maner. As an original member of the YMCA Togetherhood Program, Martha has been a driving force behind its spirit of unity, service, and action. From the very beginning, her positive and energetic attitude has set the tone for collaboration and meaningful community impact. Martha brings enthusiasm to every meeting, encourages participation from every voice, and approaches each initiative with a ``let's make it happen'' mindset. Whether organizing outreach efforts, supporting families in need, or mobilizing volunteers, her optimism inspires others to step forward and serve. Through her leadership and vibrant energy, she has helped shape Togetherhood into not just a program, but a movement of compassion and community pride.

For more than three decades, Martha has exemplified servant leadership and transformative community impact. A proud and active member of the Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World (IBPOEW) for over 30 years, she has served with integrity and grace as Exalted Ruler and Daughter Ruler of Frederick Kelley Elks Lodge No. 1270 and Kelley's Temple No. 1004. Her leadership extends statewide and nationally as President of the Florida Women Deputies of Elks, a member of Emma V. Kelley Council No. 61, a member of the National Presidents Council of Elks, and State President of the Women's Auxiliary of the IBPOEW. Her impact goes far beyond titles. Martha helped establish the Frederick Kelley Lodge's weekend breakfast program, coordinated nightly meals during the COVID-19 lockdown, and continues to host an annual community Thanksgiving dinner. She supports young mothers, assists families during bereavement, helps coordinate celebrations, and contributes to civic initiatives, including the South Brooksville Tax Redevelopment Advisory Committee, the Community Redevelopment Agency, and the YMCA Togetherhood Program.

In recognition of her extraordinary service, Martha was honored as the 2025 Brooksvillian of the Year and received the 2025 Melissa Rogers Humanitarian Award--distinctions that reflect the depth of her influence and her dedication to improving the lives of others. Her legacy is one of compassion, commitment, and courageous service.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Martha Maner for her decades of leadership and transformative contributions to her community. For her tireless dedication to families, neighborhoods, and civic life, I am proud to honor Martha Maner as a 2026 Heroes Among Us recipient for Florida's 12th Congressional District.

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