Recognizing Kimberly Godding Brooks

Floor Speech

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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Ms. Kimberly Godding Brooks has made to our community through her volunteerism. Since 2008, 17 years, Kimberly Godding Brooks has volunteered her time and talents to support Friends of Citrus and the Nature Coast Grief Services for children. Kimberly started as a Volunteer Coordinator, for Camp Good/Teen Encounter, a grief support camp for kids and teens who have experienced a loss. Trained volunteers provide therapeutic activities, in a camp setting, and help children share their stories with peers, whereby strengthening their ability to cope. Kimberly was Branch Manager with a local bank which donated backpacks to all campers. When Kimberly married Robert Brooks, she quickly recruited him to become a Camp Volunteer. Kimberly and Robert use ``Lifelines'', an exercise using strings and dark glasses, that block vision, to help children build self-confidence and ``find their way''. When Kimberly's mom, Lynn Godding, moved to our area, Kimberly quickly recruited her as a volunteer for the camp ``kitchen team.'' In 2018, Kimberly and Robert's daughter Coral was born. She began attending volunteer events, meetings, workshops and camps with her parents. Coral became an official volunteer at age 6 and serves as a role model for other camp kids. She participates in local fundraising activities. Kimberly is still employed as a bank Branch Manager. She serves on the organization's Advisory Board, actively participates in fundraising activities and continues to advocate for Camp Good Hope/Teen Encounter and other grief support services in our community, along with her husband, mom and, of course, Coral. Volunteering has become a Godding/Brooks ``family affair''! Kimberly is truly an example of an outstanding volunteer and a Hero in our Community.

It is clear that Kimberly Godding Brooks has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

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