Backup Documents 03/24/2009 Item # 4E
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PROCLAMA TION
WHEREAS, autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout
a persons life and inhibits their ability to communicate and develop social
relationships, and is often accompanied by extreme behaviorol challenges:
and,
WHEREAS, 1 in 150 individuals is diagnosed with autism in the United States, making
it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined; and,
WHEREAS, the diagnosis of autism has increased tenfold in the last decade with a new
child being diagnosed every 20 minutes, and 1. 7 million individuals in the
United States living with autism spectrum disorder: and,
WHEREAS, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a
national public health crisis for which the cause and cure remain unknown:
and,
WHEREAS, early diagnosis, research and intervention are critical components to
provide families with necessary skills to support individuals diagnosed with
autism and related disabilitiu: and,
WHEREAS, Collier Cwnty is proud to join Autism Speaks and other national
organizatians, local schools, medical professionals and parents that are
working diligently to combat autism, increase funding for research, raise
awareness about autism and its effect on individuals, families and society
and to bring hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder.
NOW THEREFORE. be it proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of Collier
County, Florida, that April 2, 2009 be designated as
World Autism Day
DONE AND ORDERED THIS 24th Day of March, 2009.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA
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DONNA F. "ALA, CHAIRMAN
A TrEST: