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WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U. S. Rep. Bobby L. Rush, today, extended his congratulations and recognition of the progressive leadership of the Honorable David Webb, Mayor of the City of Markham, Illinois, for his role in working with him to secure $437,875 in federal funds for important energy conversion and retrofitting of the Markham Community Center as well as resources to help reduce recidivism and enhance the life skills of at-risk youth in Markham.
"While my duties on Capitol Hill prevent me from attending today's event, I want to commend the leadership and teamwork demonstrated by my friend and colleague, Mayor Webb. Mayor Webb's foresight, combined with the strength and talent of the leadership of the Link and Option organization, serve as a shining example of an effective community partnership between the non-profit and government sectors. I commend all of the leaders and staff who are gathered in Markham, today, for having the foresight to fight to improve the lives of at-risk youth at Markham's Link and Option Center and to provide much needed energy enhancements for the Markham Community Center. The funds that I was successful in appropriating were part of the FY 2009 Omnibus Appropriation legislation that passed the Congress, last month, which President Barack Obama signed into law. Combined, these programs represent this Congress' efforts to save or create 3.5 million jobs and enhance the quality of life of troubled youth. I look forward to receiving progress reports from those who are utilizing these funds in the Markham community."
Congressman Rush obtained $200,000 from the U. S. Department of Justice for The Link & Option Center, Inc., Markham, IL for a school suspension program for at-risk youth incurring recidivism in suspensions, truancy and expulsion at alarming rates. The program will address both youth and their families and includes education, job readiness, life skills management and counseling services. The methodology of intervention in education decreases barriers to employment which will impact deterrence and involvement in the juvenile justice system.
In addition, Congressman Rush also obtained $237,875 from the U. S. Department of Energy for the City of Markham to conduct an alternate, green energy conversion retro-fitting of the Markham Community Center with solar panels and a green house roof. This initial grant will allow the City of Markham to conduct Phase I architect/engineering work on the community center. Congressman Rush is also working with the City of Markham to help convert the center into a state-of-the-art, 21st century energy efficient facility.
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