WHEREAS, mental retardation is a condition which affects more than seven million Americans and their families nationwide; and

WHEREAS, public education and awareness enhances a community’s understanding of mental retardation and cognitive disabilities; and

WHEREAS, people with mental retardation have the right to make choices for themselves and have maximum control over their own lives; and

WHEREAS, people with mental retardation and cognitive disabilities have a great deal to contribute to our society; and

WHEREAS, the Arc of the United States is the nation’s leading volunteer-based advocacy organization for people with mental retardation and related cognitive disabilities and their families; and

WHEREAS, the month of March has been designated National Mental Retardation Awareness Month by Arc of the United States; and

WHEREAS, Arc of Leon County serves Leon County residents and their families who are affected by cognitive disabilities.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF LEON COUNTY, FLORIDA, that the month of March 2002 be designated

in Leon County, Florida, and that we recognize and commend Leon ARC for their good works and service to the people of this community.

Dated this 26th day of March, A.D. 2002