TITLE: Recognizing Texas Impact on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.

SUMMARY: Recognizing Texas Impact on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Texas Impact is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its founding in 2023, and this occasion merits special recognition; and WHEREAS, A faith-based organization, Texas Impact was established in 1973 following the Sharpstown Scandal, which galvanized Protestant, Roman Catholic, Jewish, and other spiritual leaders in Texas to focus their attention on state government; since its inception, the organization has promoted the belief that religious communities are called to minister to the whole person and respond with compassion to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of all people; in addition, the group recognizes that such a ministry could not be performed adequately without concern for social problems at the state level; and WHEREAS, Texas Impact has continued to build and mobilize an interfaith network of denominational, congregational, and individual members in counties across the state who advocate for policies related to economic justice, human rights, climate issues, and other social concerns; the organization has also risen to national prominence, advising the White House and federal agencies on matters of faith and policy, and it works with interfaith leaders worldwide as an accredited observer to the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change; and WHEREAS, Texas Impact is training the next generation of faith leaders through its work with Texas seminaries; it also sponsors internship programs that have trained numerous high school and college students, many of whom are now serving the people of Texas and other states as policy advocates and implementers; and WHEREAS, Over the course of the past five decades, Texas Impact has remained a steadfast participant in state government, inspiring countless Texans to contribute to the common good and serve as a bridge between their fellow citizens and the legislative process; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby congratulate Texas Impact on the occasion of its 50th anniversary and extend to its board of directors, members, and staff sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for Texas Impact as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. Johnson President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 11, 2023.