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WHEREAS, autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States, currently affecting 1 in 68 children and more than three million people across the country, and is an urgent public health crisis that demands a national response; and,
WHEREAS, Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex developmental disability defined by a set of behaviors that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. It can result in significant lifetime impairment of an individual’s ability to learn, develop healthy interactive behaviors and understand verbal as well as nonverbal communication; and,
WHEREAS, while the effort to address autism continues, doctors, therapists and educators can help persons with autism overcome or adjust to its challenges by providing early, accurate diagnoses and the resulting appropriate education, intervention and therapy that are so vital to an affected individual’s growth and development; and,
WHEREAS, the Autism Speaks Walk is the world’s largest autism fundraising event dedicated to improving the lives of people with autism. Powered by the love of parents, grandparents, siblings, friends, relatives and supporters, the funds raised help insure people of all abilities have access to the tools needed to lead their best lives. The Pittsburgh Autism Speaks Walk will take place on Saturday, June 9, 2019, at Flagstaff Hill in Schenley Park.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize and commend the efforts of the autism community around awareness and research; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Saturday, June 9, 2019, to be “AUTISM SPEAKS WALK DAY” in the City of Pittsburgh.