RECOGNIZING MS. BECKY BENNETT

RECOGNIZING MS. BECKY BENNETT

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E292] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING MS. BECKY BENNETT _____ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, March 30, 2026 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary leader and dedicated servant in my district, Ms. Becky Bennett, whose compassion and commitment have strengthened the Community Service Council of West Pasco County and the countless families it serves. Becky is truly the heart of this organization, and her years of faithful service reflect the very best of our community. For more than a decade, Becky has devoted her career to the nonprofit sector, serving with Pasco Kids First, Premier Community Health Care, and now The Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind. Her professional experience, combined with her tireless volunteerism, has uniquely equipped her to meet the needs of vulnerable individuals and families with both expertise and empathy. Within the Community Service Council, Becky has been a driving force behind nearly every major initiative. She has served faithfully as Chairperson of the Outreach Committee for several years, as Vice President in 2022, and as President in 2023. Her leadership is marked by humility, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to lifting up those who need it most. It is no surprise that she was recognized as Humanitarian of the Year in 2010 and Volunteer of the Year in 2021--honors that reflect the lasting difference she continues to make. One of Becky's most significant contributions is her leadership of the Council's annual Thanksgiving meal delivery project. Under her guidance, this initiative has grown tremendously, delivering more than 1,300 meals to families in need this past Thanksgiving alone. Becky's exceptional organizational skills, calm presence, and ability to rally volunteers ensure that every meal is prepared and delivered with care, reaching homes where it truly matters. Beyond her hands-on service, Becky plays a critical role in securing the resources necessary to sustain the Council's mission. Her dedication to fundraising ensures that programs remain strong and responsive to the community's needs year after year. She approaches this responsibility with the same passion and heart that define all her work. Perhaps most importantly, Becky's impact is felt in the way she treats people. She listens with compassion, encourages with sincerity, and leads by example--never asking others to do what she is not willing to do herself. Volunteers and community members alike describe her as a steady, inspiring presence who brings out the very best in those around her. Mr. Speaker, for her years of devoted service, her transformative leadership, and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others, I am proud to recognize Becky Bennett as a 2026 Heroes Among Us recipient for Florida's 12th Congressional District. She embodies what it means to serve with heart, and I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring her outstanding contributions. ____________________