Celebrating 75 Years PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, In 1947, the words “disabled” or “handicapped” were seldom used in reference to people and anyone with a disability was considered “crippled”; and WHEREAS It was during this time that a small group of people in the farming community of Modesto, gathered to help the disabled by providing them with medical equipment, physical therapy, doctor consultations and even vocational rehabilitation; and
WHEREAS, This small group of people grew and became the Society for disABILITIES, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life and self-sufficiency of people with disabilities; and increasing public awareness about diverse abilities is vital to fighting the stigma and discrimination that often serve as a barrier to employment, socialization, and individual well-being; and WHEREAS, over 50,000 people in Stanislaus County have a disability, according to the 2020 US Census and Society for disABILITIES provides unique programs and services to this very special and vulnerable population; and
WHEREAS, the City of Patterson wants to celebrate and recognize people with different abilities as independent, productive individuals; and
WHEREAS, Society for disABILITIES makes this possible thru their Medical Loan Closet, educational and recreational programs, sign language classes, job training services, and resources and referral services; and
NOW, THEREFORE, LET IT BE PROCLAIMED that June 2022 is Disability Awareness Month in the City of Patterson and organizations such as Society for disABILITIES make life possible for many that suffer medical disadvantages. We urge all our citizens to become aware of the needs and capabilities of persons with disabilities and to support non-profit organizations such as Society for disABILITIES.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that I, Dennis McCord, by the virtue of the authority vested in me as the Mayor of the City of Patterson, do hereby officially congratulate Society for disABILITIES for 75 Years of continued work in our community.
IN WITNESS, HEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the official seal of the City of Patterson to be affixed this 21st day of June 2022. ___________________________
Dennis McCord
Mayor