CELEBRATING ACCESS INDEPENDENCE'S 40TH ANNIVERSARY

On 2025-03-11, Representative Ben Cline (R-VA-6) delivered a floor speech titled "CELEBRATING ACCESS INDEPENDENCE'S 40TH ANNIVERSARY" in the House.

CELEBRATING ACCESS INDEPENDENCE'S 40TH ANNIVERSARY

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 45 (Tuesday, March 11, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 45 (Tuesday, March 11, 2025)] [House] [Page H1077] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING ACCESS INDEPENDENCE'S 40TH ANNIVERSARY (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 40th anniversary of Access Independence, a dedicated organization serving people with disabilities in Virginia's Northern Shenandoah Valley. For four decades, Access Independence has been a beacon of hope and empowerment, promoting independent living through essential services and resources. Founded in 1985 as one of 17 centers for independent living in Virginia, Access Independence has continuously expanded its impact, offering independent living skills training, peer mentoring, information and referral, and advocacy services to the counties of Clarke, Frederick, Page, Shenandoah, Warren, and the city of Winchester. Led by Middletown Mayor Charles Harbaugh and guided by core values of empowerment, integrity, respect, and equal rights, Access Independence's dedicated team has touched thousands of lives. Last year alone, it served 678 clients and generously provided over 200 pieces of medical equipment to those in need. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Access Independence on this significant milestone and wishing them continued success in the years ahead. ____________________