Senate Resolution No. 3368

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 20th Anniversary of Kids Oneida
on October 26, 2017

WHEREAS, In the course of the evolving development of this Empire
State, if the ingredients of shared concern and responsive endeavor
combine in the commitment to society, there have emerged among the
distinguished citizens of the State of New York certain organizations
which warrant special recognition; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commend those
illustrious organizations of the State of New York whose focus and
intent have made a substantial impact on the quality of life in their
communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Kids Oneida, to be celebrated on
Thursday, October 26, 2017, at Events @ 171 Genesee, Utica, New York;
and

WHEREAS, Kids Oneida was established when leaders in the Oneida
County Departments of Social Services and Mental Health recognized the
need to develop new, collaborative solutions to decrease out-of-home
placements and keep families together; and

WHEREAS, Founded in 1997, Kids Oneida was selected by the Robert
Wood Johnson Foundation as one of 12 initiatives across the country to
pilot a new approach to children's mental health delivery; and

WHEREAS, This vital organization's unique blended model aligns
county and federal resources to ensure that youth and families have
access to comprehensive, innovative, client-centered services in their
homes and communities; and

WHEREAS, An ambitious, creative, and responsive organization, Kids
Oneida continues to innovate new solutions to community needs; and

WHEREAS, Launched with two staff and one program, Kids Oneida now
has 13 initiatives led by more than 300 staff and providers across the
Mohawk Valley; and

WHEREAS, Kids Oneida has been instrumental in shifting the landscape
of children's services in Central New York and statewide to one that
recognizes the value and importance of keeping families together; and

WHEREAS, Over its distinguished 20 year history, Kids Oneida has
demonstrated continuous service to the residents and communities which
it serves; and

WHEREAS, The success of Kids Oneida is in direct correlation to the
efforts of its staff, whose involvement is, and always has been,
characterized by an impressive commitment, an unbridled enthusiasm, and

an uncompromising standard of excellence in all endeavors on behalf of
the organization and the community it serves; and

WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion presents an opportunity for this
Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to Kids Oneida; and

WHEREAS, In light of its commitment, dedication and successful
efforts, it is the custom of this Legislative Body to extend its highest
commendation to Kids Oneida of Utica, New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Kids Oneida on October 26, 2017; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Kids Oneida.