Honoring the Easter Seals Goodwill Industries Rehabilitation Center On It's 35th Anniversary

HONORING THE EASTER SEALS GOODWILL INDUSTRIES REHABILITATION CENTER ON ITS 35TH ANNIVERSARY -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 14, 2004)

SPEECH OF HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO OF CONNECTICUT
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
MONDAY, JUNE 14, 2004

Ms. DELAURO. Mr. Speaker 35 years ago, a historic merger occurred which resulted in the creation of the Easter Seals Goodwill Industries Rehabilitation Center. Today, community leaders, supporters, advocates, and participants have gathered to mark this very special occasion. It is with my heart-felt thanks and sincere appreciation that I rise today to join them in celebrating this important milestone.

What began as three separate agencies has become one of the most successful and effective non-profit agencies in the Greater New Haven area. This community-based organization is committed to its mission to enhance employment opportunities and the quality of life for people with disabilities and other special needs. Throughout the years, as communities advanced, those needs have changed. As an organization rooted in the community, the Center has been able to identify those changes and adapt its programs and services to meet them. This could not have been accomplished without the strength of support the Center has received from its staff and the communities of Greater New Haven.

I would be remiss if I did not recognize the vision and leadership of the man who has been leading this agency for the last twenty years-Malcolm Gill. For the last two decades, Mal has worked diligently to ensure that the Center is providing the programs and services that meet the needs of their participants. There is no one who could be more dedicated to fulfilling the mission of the organization. I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with him so closely over the years and to call him my friend.

For people with disabilities and other special needs, functioning in the daily activities that we take for granted is not only challenging, but it can be a source of frustration and heartache. While these men and women have a deep desire to contribute to the community, physical or mental limitations make that difficult to accomplish. That is why the Center has become such a fundamental part of our community. They provide a gift which is truly invaluable-the opportunity for success and a sense of belonging. The Center has touched the lives of thousands over the years and mere words cannot describe the difference they have made to those individuals.

For the innumerable contributions it has made to our community, it is with great pride that I stand today to extend my sincere congratulations to the Easter Seals Goodwill Industries Rehabilitation Center on its 35th Anniversary. Through their unparalleled dedication and commitment, they have helped to change the face of our community and have made it a better place for our children and families.