Senate Resolution No. 767

BY: Senator MARCELLINO

COMMEMORATING the 25th Anniversary of the Opening
Word Program on April 26, 2017

WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to
recognize and acknowledge those organizations within our midst who have
made significant contributions to the quality of life therein; and

WHEREAS, From time to time, this Legislative Body takes note of
certain extraordinary individuals and organizations it wishes to
recognize for their valued contributions to the success and progress of
society and publicly acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the
basic humanity among us all; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the
25th Anniversary of the Opening Word Program, to be celebrated on April
26, 2017; and

WHEREAS, For more than two decades, the Opening Word Program has
enhanced the lives of countless women with limited oral and written
English skills; and

WHEREAS, The Opening Word Program is based on the belief that all
persons have the right to education and information available within the
society of which they are a part; everyone must be assisted in reaching
his or her full potential as a member of that society; and

WHEREAS, Aware of the dehumanizing experience of the poor and
undereducated, the Opening Word Program seeks to recognize the
uniqueness of each person, respecting each individual's cultural
background, inherent gifts and learning style; and

WHEREAS, Originally located in Wyandanch, New York, the program has
expanded over the years to include sites in Huntington and Amityville;
and

WHEREAS, A literacy, ESOL and job readiness program, the Opening
Word Program services more than 300 women annually; and

WHEREAS, Remaining true to its mission, the Opening Word Program
unlocks the language ability of its adult participants, providing them
with a key to future personal empowerment, increased civic and social
responsibility and enhanced skills for membership in the workforce; and

WHEREAS, Over its distinguished 25 year history, the Opening Word
Program has demonstrated continuous service to the residents and
communities which it serves; and

WHEREAS, The success of the Opening Word Program is in direct
correlation to the efforts of its volunteers, 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 the Opening Word
Program; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
organizations of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our
attention, they should be recognized and applauded by all the citizens
of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Opening Word Program on April
26, 2017; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Opening Word Program.