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Proclamation

Whereas, nearly four million Americans live with a developmental disability - a severe physical or mental impairment that slows their learning, limits their mobility, inhibits their expression, and renders them dependent on others for care and assistance; and

Whereas, people who have developmental disabilities benefit from quality supports and services provided through a participatory system built upon the combined efforts of parents, family members, nonprofit providers, public- and private-sector employees whose commitment and compassion have moved the service system forward; and

Whereas, New York leads the nation in ensuring that persons with intellectual and other developmental disabilities are provided with individualized care through programs designed with and for each person's needs, through initiatives like NYS-CARES III - which provides out-of-home community residential opportunities for adults, and through other programs such as supported employment - which helps individuals enter the workforce and become productive members of society; and

Whereas, the advocacy and support of parents, family members, self-advocates, volunteers, staff, government officials, community members, voluntary not-for-profit providers such as NYSARC, and others who work tirelessly on behalf of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have helped shape New York's system of care into one that is highly regarded for its excellence and responsiveness to the needs of these individuals; and

Whereas, new opportunities have been created through the efforts of those with developmental disabilities and their family members - along with professionals and officials at all levels of government - which have brought about significant changes in the public perception of youth and adults with developmental disabilities, opening new doors to more independent and productive lives; and

Whereas, the past few decades have seen advancements in the rights and dignity of people with developmental disabilities, which have increased their acceptance and inclusion in community life and helped them achieve their goals in various areas of endeavor, and all New Yorkers join to applaud their achievements and support this monthlong observance that encourages their continued progress as members of today's society;

Now, Therefore, I, Eliot Spitzer, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim March 2008 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in the Empire State.

G i v e n under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this twentieth day of February in the year two thousand eight.

Eliot Spitzer, Governor

Richard Baum, Secretary to the Governor