296.2016 Res. Supporting Think Differently Initiative RESOLUTION SUPPORTING "THINK DIFFERENTLY" INITIATIVE TO
ASSIST INDIVIDUALS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AND THEIR FAMILIES
RESOLUTION NO.: 296, 2016
INTRODUCED BY: Mr. Doug Irish
WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: Mr. Anthony Metivier
WHEREAS, the "Think Differently" initiative is about promoting awareness and
acceptance of all people and advocating for the inclusion of all individuals living on the Autism
Spectrum and with special needs, and
WHEREAS, New York state and its communities are stronger because of our diversity
and differences, and
WHEREAS, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) over 55 million people,
or approximately 19% of Americans, have a type of disability or special need, and
WHEREAS, for some people with special needs, the very things that make them unique
can also keep them on the sidelines, separate from those who might not understand their
differences or uniqueness, and
WHEREAS, it is important to promote and provide guidance to those with special needs
on how to access publically supported services available to them in the community, and
WHEREAS, it is important to encourage and educate the community and businesses on
ways they can make facilities and services more accessible and on how to train staff to welcome
and support special needs customers and coworkers, and
WHEREAS, the goal of this initiative is to provide a supportive and inclusive
environment for individuals of all abilities by supporting community events that expand family
friendly opportunities for people with special needs and their families, and
WHEREAS, adopting the "Think Differently" initiative is an important statement that our
Town/Village/City officials, business owners and residents can make to show their support for
the differently-abled children and adults with special needs and their families,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Queensbury Town Board hereby supports and adopts the "Think
Differently" initiative and encourages its residents and business owners to also do so, so that all
are better prepared to communicate with, provide for and support those living on the Autism
Spectrum and with special needs, and
BE IT FURTHER,
RESOLVED, that the Town Board further authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor to
take any action necessary to effectuate the terms of this Resolution.
Duly adopted this 12th day of September, 2016 by the following vote:
AYES Mr. Irish, Mr. VanNess, Mr. Strough, Mr. Metivier, Mr. Clements
NOES None
ABSENT: None