Including People with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Month

WHEREAS, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities such as Down Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, and others, constitute one of America’s largest groups of citizens who have disabilities; and

WHEREAS, the most effective methods for improving the lives of these individuals are public awareness, employment, understanding and inclusion in the community; and

WHEREAS, Arlington County recognizes those Arlington groups and individuals who have made substantial differences in the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities; and

WHEREAS, Arlington County is committed to empowering and supporting persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve healthy self-determined lifestyles through community-based education, living arrangements, employment, and other individualized support services; and

WHEREAS, Arlington County is proud to recognize and support the efforts of educators who assist adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in maximizing their full potential;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jay Fisette, Chair of the County Board of Arlington, Virginia, do hereby proclaim March 2017 as

INCLUDING PEOPLE WITH INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES MONTH

in Arlington County, and urge our residents, in recognition of the value and potential of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, to dedicate ourselves to the empowerment and full inclusion of each of these individuals in all aspects of community life, all year long.

Jay Fisette, Chair