4.06 4.6
SUPPORT\Think Differently—Autism Spectrum Initiative—9-12-16
RESOLUTION SUPPORTING "THINK DIFFERENTLY" INITIATIVE TO
ASSIST INDIVIDUALS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AND THEIR FAMILIES
RESOLUTION NO.: , 2016
INTRODUCED BY:
WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY:
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
NOES
ABSENT:
I'
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it r,;...
COUNTY OF DUTCHESS 11 9
MARCUS J. MOLINARO
COUNTY EXECUTIVE
July 8, 2016
Dear Supervisor,
Earlier this month,the City of Troy became the first municipality in New York State to adopt Dutchess County's
"Think DIFFERENTLY"initiative,doing so unanimously. I respectfully ask your town to similarly consider our
"Think DIFFERENTLY"initiative,which would be a great step forward for residents with special needs - one
that can be replicated throughout our state.
Since its inception in 2015, our "Think DIFFERENTLY" initiative has been embraced throughout Dutchess
County,and the message has resonated greatly in our community- from businesses and organizations learning
how to better welcome their neighbors with special needs, to a greater sense of inclusiveness among residents
of all abilities. Dutchess County has also partnered with local sponsors to offer free movie days and picnics for
our children with special needs and their families,exemplifying our desire to have every resident,regardless of
ability, feel welcome in their own community.
"Think DIFFERENTLY" is a call to action, a genuine challenge to determine if we have it within ourselves to
look past our differences and treat others the way we would hope to be treated. Too often,too many with special
needs are overlooked and their unique abilities ignored. Instead, we seek to lift each other up and embrace all
residents of all abilities.
As the father of a daughter who lives on the autism spectrum, I sincerely ask you to answer our call and con-
sider adopting"Think DIFFERENTLY"in your town.I envision other cities,towns and villages across the state
following your lead; and together, we can make our state a model for the nation,letting citizens from Maine to
Florida to California know that in New York,we"Think DIFFERENTLY:'
Enclosed is a draft resolution for your review. I encourage you to call me at (845) 986-2000 or e-mail nie at
countvexecPdutchessny.gov should you need more information.
Best regards,
•
41 404"19
Marcus J. Molinaro
Dutchess County Executive
22 Market Street,Poughkeepsie New York 12601•(845)486-2000•Fac(845)486-2021
www.dutchessny.gov