HONORING JAMIE MICK

HONORING JAMIE MICK

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E290] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING JAMIE MICK _____ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, March 30, 2026 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an exceptional leader, volunteer, and advocate in our community, Jamie Mick, whose dedication and selflessness make her a truly deserving recipient of the 2026 Heroes Among Us Congressional Award. Jamie Mick has been a cornerstone of the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired & Blind (LVIB) since joining its Board of Directors in 2008. Her connection to vision loss is deeply personal, as both her grandfather and mother were legally blind due to age-related macular degeneration. This lived experience, combined with her passion and commitment, has guided her leadership across multiple roles, including Board President, a position she is slated to step into once again. For more than a decade, Jamie has chaired the Chasco Coronation Ball, LVIB's signature fundraiser. Beginning as co-chair in 2010, she has led the event independently, cultivating a strong, diverse committee and implementing a fair, balanced evaluation process for nominees. Her vision ensures that both nonprofit organizations and individual honorees are celebrated, preserving cherished traditions while keeping the event relevant and impactful. Through her leadership, the Ball has raised nearly $738,000 in support of LVIB's mission, complementing her personal contributions exceeding $20,000. Jamie's devotion extends to LVIB's youth programs, particularly the Lighthouse Prom. From coordinating dance lessons to personally donating and assembling corsages and boutonnieres, she has shaped the event into a beloved celebration for nearly 60 teens from six Lighthouse organizations. Her attention to detail, enthusiasm, and encouragement help ensure each participant feels seen, celebrated, and supported. Her generosity is matched by her approachability and steady guidance. Jamie shares hundreds of volunteer hours, inspires committees, and uplifts staff and clients alike, making a profound and lasting impact on the organization and the broader community, Beyond LVIB, Jamie's commitment to service resonates throughout Pasco County. She actively supports Leadership Pasco, Rotary Club of Trinity, and Rotary District 6950, serving in leadership roles that range from Public Image Director to Rotary Youth Exchange Officer. Across every organization she touches, Jamie's leadership, generosity, and encouragement create meaningful, lasting change. Jamie Mick's dedication, vision, and selfless service exemplify the spirit of community and the power of one person to make a lasting difference. For her extraordinary contributions to LVIB and her broader impact across Pasco County, I am honored to recognize her as a 2026 Hero Among Us. ____________________