Office of the Mayor

Proclamation

Lawrence, Kansas

WHEREAS:      Mental retardation and developmental disabilities affect more than six million American children and adults and their families; and

WHEREAS:      The most effective way to  overcome problems associated with understanding people with developmental disabilities is through information to increase that understanding; and

WHEREAS:      We encourage all our citizens to realize that individuals with developmental disabilities should be afforded opportunities in the community, including full access to housing, employment, and recreational activities; and

WHEREAS:      Opportunities for citizens with mental retardation and developmental disabilities to function as independently and productively as possible must be fostered in our community; and

WHEREAS:      We recognize the important contributions of Cottonwood, Inc., to Lawrence, Kansas and its citizens; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mike Rundle, Mayor of the City of Lawrence, Kansas, do hereby proclaim the month of March 2005 as

“NATIONAL DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY AWARENESS MONTH”

in Lawrence, Kansas and hereby offer full support to efforts to “Think Ability First”, enabling people with developmental disabilities to live successful lives and realize their potential.

Mike Rundle, Mayor

March 15, 2005