STATE OF NEW YORK 
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER 
Proclamation

Whereas, promoting and supporting the mental health and well-being of children and their families is a significant issue for all citizens of New York, and Children’s Mental Health Week is a time to focus on the needs of children and families while celebrating what they have accomplished; and

Whereas, it is important for service providers to engage and partner with families and youth, both at the service delivery level with respect to their own children, and at the policy-making level, to assure effectiveness of treatment and the achievement of positive outcomes; and

Whereas, research has shown that prevention, early identification, and intervention for emotional and behavioral problems for young children through adolescence offer the best opportunity for positive outcomes; and

Whereas, the reduction of mental health symptoms is one aspect of successful treatment, and the achievement of developmental milestones and experiences that reinforce resiliency are integral for preparing youth to be successful adults; and

Whereas, collaboration and integration across all child-serving systems at the state and local levels are essential for increased access to mental health services and supports, reduction of duplicated services, maximization of resources and assurance of effective service provision; and

Whereas, enhanced training opportunities for workers serving children and their families on social and emotional development, evidence-based practices, and core competencies are essential to improving outcomes; and

Whereas, these values form the foundation for a comprehensive, statewide, cross-systems plan for Children’s Mental Health, developed with input from service stakeholders, advocates, family members and youth representatives; we recognize the potential for improving our children’s system of care and celebrate Children’s Mental Health Week with a renewed sense of optimism and hope;

Now, Therefore, I, David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim May 4-10, 2008 as CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH WEEK 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 twenty-first day of April in the year two thousand eight.