The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING MICHAEL HARDAT AS IOWAN OF THE WEEK
______
HON. CYNTHIA AXNE
of iowa
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, March 1, 2022
Mrs. AXNE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Michael Hardat, a financial coach and youth advocate at the Financial Empowerment Center's Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families, as Iowan of the Week.
Michael is a Lifelong resident of the Des Moines metro area and a recent Iowa State University graduate. From a young age, Michael recognized that he and his family lacked the financial resources that others had. As a result, Michael began going to the Children and Family Urban Movement's programs. These programs made all the difference for Michael and helped him embrace the spirit of community support and betterment. Knowing he wanted to give back to the community, Michael began working with the Financial Empowerment Center. In his role, he has a direct hand in helping families make informed financial decisions and plan for a brighter future. During the pandemic when many families faced even greater struggles, he spoke out about how Iowans receiving the Child Tax Credit could most effectively use those funds to create positive outcomes.
Michael has been with the Financial Empowerment Center at Evelyn K. Davis since 2018. The organization helps connect people to career goals as well as achieve financial stability through job development, career coaching, workforce training, and financial education. Many of these free services have made all the difference for our neighbors in Des Moines. Michael is also still active with the Children and Family Urban Movement (CFUM) as an adult advocate. The non-profit strives to support the potential of Des Moines youth and families through educational success, healthy Living, and community engagement. Michael firmly believes in CFUM's ability to lift up the community. He began publicly advocating for the program when he was still in high school and remains passionate about how individuals can come together to help one another, regardless of where they come from.
As we celebrate Black History Month, it is my honor to recognize Michael Hardat for the amazing work he is doing for families in greater Des Moines. Michael's selfless approach and dedication to helping others succeed are some of the many reasons he is a shining example of what it means to be an Iowan and a good neighbor. I will continue to fight in Congress to ensure every American has access to quality financial education and quality community programs. It is my pleasure to name Mr. Hardat Iowan of the Week.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 37
The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
House Representatives' salaries are historically higher than the median US income.
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