[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 54 (Friday, March 29, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E289]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                         RECOGNIZING MARK BARRY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 29, 2024

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the 
unique contributions of my constituent, Mark Barry, who works with the 
Arc, Nature Coast. Mark knew he wanted to work with people with 
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) since high school. He 
received his degree in special education and began working at Pasco 
Arc. He became the CEO for The Arc, Nature Coast in 1992, serving this 
field for 43 years. During his tenure, he led the agency from a 
grassroots organization to one which serves 300+ individuals and their 
families in 22 locations and within three counties. He also led 
individuals from sheltered workshops into competitive employment, with 
120 people served currently employed in the community. Additionally, 
Mark has secured grant funding for the construction of five new, fully 
assessable residential homes, providing permanent housing for 50+ 
individuals with IDD. His commitment to inclusion and to ensuring that 
everyone, regardless of their disability status is able to live a full 
and meaningful life is inspiring.
  It is clear that Mark Barry has made a profoundly positive impact on 
our community, and I am grateful for his service.

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