Mr. TALENT. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize
the efforts of an outstanding organization which has dedicated itself
to aid in the development of our Nation's children. The Gift of Time
Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing community
service, academic, and physical fitness programs for children between
the ages of four and eighteen.
The mission of the Gift of Time Foundation is: "To
provide children with resources, opportunities and assistance that
help them develop high self-esteem, self confidence, socially acceptable
value systems, diverse cultural appreciation and family values by
providing them with structured environments for membership in mandatory
participation in physical fitness, academics, and community service
programs. To provide children with personal character development
assistance for self expression through structured positive activities
alternatives."
The Gift of Time Foundation was spearheaded by E.
Douglas McFarlin. His vision was to build a youth complex in St. Louis
that would provide children with the proper direction to meet the
challenges of our modern society. Mr. McFarlin has worked closely
with business, community, and civic leaders to launch this important
project. He is hoping that the St. Louis complex will be the first
of many across the country.
Mr. President, organizations such as the Gift of
Time Foundation can help a community in building character and values
in its children. The efforts of Mr. McFarlin and his organization
are to be commended for taking this challenge head on. I ask that
you join me in recognizing this fine organization and wishing Mr.
McFarlin the very best on his endeavors to bring this program to the
children of our nation.
