LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring R.J. Smith upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of the 2011 Vision of Hope Award by the Occupa-
tions Foundation, Inc.

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 reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organiza-
tions and individuals who would devote themselves 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 honor R.J.
Smith upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the 2011
Vision of Hope Award by the Occupations Foundation, Inc. at its "Vision
of Hope" Gala and Awards Dinner to be held on Saturday, October 29,
2011, at Anthony's Pier 9, New Windsor, New York; and
WHEREAS, For more than 47 years, Occupations Foundation, Inc., a not-
for-profit agency, has provided outpatient mental health services, case
management, child welfare, emergency services, residential services, and
employment opportunities to people with developmental disabilities and
individuals recovering from mental illness; and
WHEREAS, The Vision of Hope Award recognizes an individual or organ-
ization whose value and concern for human life eloquently demonstrated
through their leadership, accomplishments and commitment, serve as an
inspiration to others; and
WHEREAS, Lifetime Orange County resident, R.J. Smith is a known and
respected member of his community as well as a volunteer for many years;
he is the Founder and President of Richard J. Smith Enterprises Corp and
Part Owner, Founder, and Member of Real Estate Solutions, LLC; and
WHEREAS, Dedicated and committed to community service, R.J. Smith has
worked to establish the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan
County, and has served on numerous other not-for-profit boards; and
WHEREAS, R.J. Smith has been a friend and advisor to Occupations Foun-
dation, Inc., and has been a long standing rock in the Orange county
community, bringing sincerity, ethics, commitment, and credibility to
every undertaking he touches; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a compassionate blend-
ing of strength, intellect and commitment as that demonstrated by R.J.
Smith over a lifetime of sacrifice and dedication to others; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individ-
uals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our atten-
tion, it is appropriate to publicly proclaim and commend those individ-
uals for the edification and emulation of others; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor R.J. Smith upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of
the 2011 Vision of Hope Award by Occupations Foundation, Inc.; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to R.J. Smith.