Recognizing Sue Simone

Floor Speech

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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Sue Simone has made to our community through her volunteerism at HPH Hospice. HPH Hospice services Hernando, Citrus, and Pasco Counties. In 2022, Sue joined the HPH Hospice Foundation as a founding member of the Women of Giving (WOG). She played a crucial role on the Steering Committee, helping to define the WOG's operating structure, roles, mission, and vision. Together, the members aimed to create a significant pool of funds to support the Foundation's various charitable programs, all under the guiding principle of ``Igniting Love and Spreading Hope.'' In addition to her committee work, Sue also became a trained Ambassador for the Foundation. Over the years, WOG has achieved remarkable fundraising milestones: In its first year, 20 members raised $15,675.00. In the second year, 47 members raised $40,845. In the third year, despite a smaller membership of 44, they raised $51,082.57. At the beginning of this year, the Lightning Hockey Team awarded the WOG a $50,000.00 Hero's Award. Each year, during the annual meeting, funds are donated throughout the Foundation's programs, which include: Charity Care, Adult and Child Bereavement Counseling, a camp for kids ages 6 to 17 that teaches them to manage grief and reassures them they are not alone in their loss, Building a Children's Bereavement Center, Circle of Hope in Pasco County, and renovations in Citrus and Hernando counties. Sue has also contributed to the Valor and Legacy program in a variety of meaningful ways.

It is clear Sue Simone 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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