LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Cheri Magadanz upon the occasion of her
designation as recipient of the Dream Catcher Award by Orange AHRC on
April 9, 2015

WHEREAS, It is the custom 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
Cheri Magadanz upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the
Dream Catcher Award by Orange AHRC to be celebrated on Thursday, April
9, 2015, at Anthony's Pier 9 in New Windsor, New York; and
WHEREAS, Founded in 1954, Orange AHRC provides services and housing to
children and adults with developmental disabilities including those with
autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and intellectu-
al and learning disorders; its mission is to assist people with disabil-
ities in becoming respected and valued members of their communities; and
WHEREAS, Orange AHRC is focused on promoting community membership for
adults with disabilities in three major areas: employment, volunteerism,
and group affiliation; through active engagement in public life, the men
and women supported by the agency gain both respect and visibility; and
WHEREAS, Cheri Magadanz has provided outstanding service to Orange
AHRC for 15 years in a variety of different programs including educa-
tion, residential and day service programs; she currently works with the
Community Builders Program and the Self-Advocacy Group; and
WHEREAS, Dedicated to helping others, Cheri Magadanz carefully listens
to those in her care and encourages them to challenge themselves and
strive for meaningful and unique opportunities to fulfill their dreams;
and
WHEREAS, This remarkable woman has been instrumental in helping a
local man with special needs realize his dream of being on the radio;
she helped him brainstorm ideas, and contacted a local Deejay to set up
a tour with a radio station; this was the beginning of a very productive
relationship for everyone involved; and
WHEREAS, In addition, Cheri Magadanz has been a mentor to others, and
has made significant contributions to Orange AHRC in such areas as the
interview process of job applicants, staff training, and being CQL
committee members; and
WHEREAS, An outstanding advocate for all people and a wonderful role
model for staff, Cheri Magadanz is a talented and creative person with
an ability to break down barriers; she has helped many people achieve
their ambitions, while always ensuring the spotlight remains on others;
and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a
long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly have earned the
recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Cheri Magadanz upon the occasion of her designation as recipient
of the Dream Catcher Award by the Orange AHRC; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Cheri Magadanz.