TITLE: Recognizing the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement on the occasion of its 25th anniversary.

SUMMARY: Recognizing the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement on the occasion of its 25th anniversary.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement on the occasion of its 25th anniversary; and WHEREAS, This innovative service organization was established in response to dramatic job losses in the Rio Grande Valley's textile industry that began in the mid-1990s; by 2003, more than 8,000 workers had lost jobs in a region already faced with severe underemployment; and WHEREAS, Structured through the combined efforts of Valley Interfaith and private industry leaders, VIDA was founded on a mission to create new institutional relationships that address the demands of local employers and that provide workers with the skills, training, and resources they need to attain new high-paying jobs; and WHEREAS, Through supplemental support from private businesses and local, state, and federal governments, VIDA is able to break down economic barriers for training and career advancement; craft and trade initiatives provide on-the-job training opportunities that allow students to work with contractors only a few months after beginning their trade programs; and WHEREAS, In the years since its establishment, VIDA has enabled numerous individuals to create new paths for self-sufficiency and to build strong foundations for their families; all who are associated with the organization can reflect with pride on the institution's proud tradition of service in the community; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 87th Legislature, 3rd Called Session, hereby commend the administrators, staff, and partners who serve with the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement and congratulate them on the initiative's 25th anniversary; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for this organization as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. Lucio President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on October 14, 2021.