Honoring the Memory of Barbara W Winters

HONORING THE MEMORY OF BARBARA W. WINTERS -- (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, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the memory of an outstanding member of our community, Barbara W. Winters. Throughout her life, Barbara dedicated herself to the community and to making a difference in the lives of others. With her we lose an advocate, leader, and friend.

Barbara dedicated both her professional and personal life to enriching her community. With a big heart and an infectious smile, she worked hard to not only achieve her goals, but inspire others to do so as well. It is not often that you find an individual with the depth of compassion and generosity that Barbara demonstrated every day. I, as with so many others, consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to know her and to work with her over the years. I was always impressed with her vision, tenacity, and leadership. She was a role model for us all.

The strength of Barbara's character is reflected in the lifetime that she dedicated to others. Whether as a community advocate, educator, or, most recently, as the Program Director for Life Haven-a temporary shelter for homeless, pregnant women and women with young children-Barbara was always there to provide a strong voice on behalf of children, families, and the community.

Barbara understood the importance of giving back to the community and utilizing your talents to make it a better place to live. In addition to her professional career, she dedicated much of her personal time to community service organizations where her efforts helped those most in need. The YWCA, NAACP, Connecticut Association for Human Services, and the Urban League of Greater New Haven are just a sample of the organizations with which she was involved. Through these organizations and others, her good work touched the lives of many.
It is with my thanks that I extend heart-felt condolences to her three sons, Joseph, Mark, and Frank, and the family of Barbara W. Winters as friends, colleagues, and community members gather to remember her lifetime of achievement. Barbara has left an indelible mark on our community and a legacy that is certain to inspire many.