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WHEREAS, on April 16, 2009, Ability Pittsburgh will take place at the Senator John Heinz History Center; and
WHEREAS, Ability Pittsburgh is a day-long event for young people with disabilities to learn information about services available to assist them in achieving a successful transition from school to work; and
WHEREAS, over 350 students will participate in the program which will include exhibits and four interactive modules on the subjects of employment, assistive technology, advocacy and healthy lifestyles; and
WHEREAS, students will be provided with hands-on activities that support youths with disabilities by building awareness, creating networks, providing resources and encouraging them to take an assertive role in achieving success; and
WHEREAS, Ability Pittsburgh has engaged nearly 40 community partners, including local and national business sectors, higher education, state and local government and non-profit organizations in the health and social service sectors throughout Allegheny County; and
WHEREAS, Ability Pittsburgh is a pilot program modeled after the Smithsonian's "IDEA Celebration," that was held in 2007 at the National Air and Space Museum and the Smithsonian plans to offer the Pittsburgh program to its museum affiliate partners throughout the country.
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Council of the City of Pittsburgh commends the Senator John Heinz History Center and Smithsonian Institution for their efforts to assist students with disabilities; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh hereby declares April 16, 2009, "Ability Pittsburgh Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.