WHEREAS, for 25 years, the disAbility Resource Center of the Rappahannock Area, Inc., a nonprofit, cross-disability support, resource, and advocacy organization based in Fredericksburg, has helped members of the community with medical challenges live their lives as independently as possible and reach their fullest potential; and

WHEREAS, the disAbility Resource Center of the Rappahannock Area was established in 1992 by Faith Smith, who wished to utilize her own experiences with a spinal cord injury to help and support other people in the region with disabilities; the center was officially incorporated in 1993; and

WHEREAS, as a consumer-driven Center for Independent Living, the disAbility Resource Center of the Rappahannock Area is staffed and led by many individuals with all types of disabilities, or their family members, giving the organization a unique understanding of the challenges faced by fellow members of the disability community; and

WHEREAS, the disAbility Resource Center of the Rappahannock Area offers living skills training, peer counseling, information and referral programs, advocacy services, transition services, and home care support to ensure that every person has a voice and choice on where they live their lives; and

WHEREAS, the disAbility Resource Center of the Rappahannock Area works with local government agencies, corporate partners, and community volunteers to provide its comprehensive services efficiently and effectively; and

WHEREAS, the disAbility Resource Center of the Rappahannock Area will commemorate its 25th anniversary with special events throughout the year, including an anniversary gala on October 20, 2018; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That the disAbility Resource Center of the Rappahannock Area, Inc., hereby be commended on the occasion of its 25th anniversary for its work to help people of all ages exercise the choice to live in their own homes, while remaining active members of the community; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the disAbility Resource Center of the Rappahannock Area, Inc., as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for the organization's important mission and achievements on behalf of its clients.