LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION congratulating Best Buddies New York upon the
occasion of its designation as a recipient of the Champions for Children
of the Capital Region Award by the Northeast Parent and Child Society

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are enhanced by the concerned and dedicated efforts of organizations and
individuals that generously contribute to the welfare of the community
and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to congratu-
late Best Buddies New York upon the occasion of its designation as a
recipient of the Champions for Children of the Capital Region Award by
the Northeast Parent and Child Society; this auspicious occasion will be
celebrated on Tuesday, May 4, 2010, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Troy,
New York; and
WHEREAS, The Northeast Parent and Child Society was formed on July 1,
1983, through the consolidation of the Children's Home of Schenectady
and Parkhurst Parent and Child Center; and
WHEREAS, The vision of the Northeast Parent and Child Society for
America is a country where every child is healthy, safe, and thriving;
where all children develop to their potential, supported by family and
community; where all children are nurtured, getting what they need to
succeed; and where all children grow into responsible adults who are
able to make positive contributions to family and society; its mission
is protecting children, preserving families, and strengthening the
communities it serves; and
WHEREAS, The most important assets of the Northeast Parent and Child
Society are: the thousands of children and families it loves, serves,
and learns from every day; the inspired vision and community leadership
provided by its Board of Directors; the professional ability and self-
less dedication of its staff and foster parents; the compassion and
generosity of community friends, donors, and volunteers; and its ongoing
partnerships with government agencies, community leaders, and child
advocacy organizations in meeting the needs of those it exists to serve;
and
WHEREAS, The goal of the Northeast Parent and Child Society is to
leave no child behind; its solution is to create a caring, supportive
community; and its secret to success is its community partnerships; and
WHEREAS, Under the able leadership of its President and Chief Execu-
tive Officer, John E. Henley, the Northeast Parent and Child Society
supports award winning programs that provide for the healing, guidance,
and support of the children of the community; and
WHEREAS, The Champions for Children of the Capital Region awards
presented by the Northeast Parent and Child Society recognize the posi-
tive impact of the recipients on the community; these champions are the
organizations, businesses, individuals and youth who make lives safer
and futures brighter through steadfast commitment and generosity; and
WHEREAS, Best Buddies New York is part of an international organiza-
tion whose mission is to establish a global volunteer movement that
creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment
and leadership development for people with intellectual and develop-
mental disabilities; and
WHEREAS, Through mutually enriching friendships, Best Buddies' volun-
teers gain a greater understanding of themselves and those with disabil-
ities; through its efforts, people with intellectual and developmental
disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live independently, and most impor-

tantly, make life changing friendships; together, Best Buddies' partic-
ipants build a more socially inclusive world, one friendship at a time;
and
WHEREAS, Best Buddies New York currently provides programs to more
than 2,800 people throughout the state; it is actively involved in 33
middle schools, 25 high schools and 9 college campuses; in addition, it
has more than 30 participants in its e-buddies program; and
WHEREAS, In 2010, Best Buddies New York will positively impact more
than 13,750 New York residents, including participants' families,
friends and teachers; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individ-
uals and organizations of such noble aims and accomplishments are
brought to our attention, they should be recognized by all the citizens
of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Best Buddies New York upon the occasion of its designation
as a recipient of the Champions for Children of the Capital Region Award
by the Northeast Parent and Child Society; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Best Buddies New York.