Privileged Resolution 020653

..Title Honoring Lutheran Children and Family Service. ..Body WHEREAS, Lutheran Children and Family Service (LCFS) was founded in 1922, and since that time it has grown in size and scope, yet it has stayed true to its original mission of serving children and families in need in Philadelphia, its suburbs and around the world; and WHEREAS, LCFS of Eastern Pennsylvania works in partnership with churches and other organizations and individuals to offer care, nurturing, shelter, advocacy and counseling. Its reputation is so strong that it is the only federally authorized provider of foster care services to refugees. Its work in foster care is unparalleled, and today, it also offers adoption and post adoption services here and abroad, refugee programs, English as a second language, adult education, legal aid and activities for senior citizens; and WHEREAS, Because Lutheran Children and Family Service is a faith-based organization, its vision is to provide community-based services in an environment that is compassionate, caring, wise, just and positive. With this spirit, it has also secured a highly qualified, diversified staff whose commitment is matched only by its skill. We express special gratitude to Reverend William G. Erat, who for his eighteen years as Executive Director, has guided the organization with great generosity and wisdom; now therefore RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby honor and commend Lutheran Children and Family Service on the great occasion of its 80th Anniversary of service to the citizens of this City and region, and the world over. FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Reverend William G. Erat, Executive Director of the Lutheran Children and Family Service, as evidence of the sincere respect and enormous admiration of this legislative body. ..End