Honor Kids Oneida Anniversary

Senate Resolution No. 3368 BY: Senator GRIFFO COMMEMORATING the 20th Anniversary of Kids Oneida on October 26, 2017 WHEREAS, In the course of the evolving development of this Empire State, if the ingredients of shared concern and responsive endeavor combine in the commitment to society, there have emerged among the distinguished citizens of the State of New York certain organizations which warrant special recognition; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commend those illustrious organizations of the State of New York whose focus and intent have made a substantial impact on the quality of life in their communities; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Kids Oneida, to be celebrated on Thursday, October 26, 2017, at Events @ 171 Genesee, Utica, New York; and WHEREAS, Kids Oneida was established when leaders in the Oneida County Departments of Social Services and Mental Health recognized the need to develop new, collaborative solutions to decrease out-of-home placements and keep families together; and WHEREAS, Founded in 1997, Kids Oneida was selected by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation as one of 12 initiatives across the country to pilot a new approach to children's mental health delivery; and WHEREAS, This vital organization's unique blended model aligns county and federal resources to ensure that youth and families have access to comprehensive, innovative, client-centered services in their homes and communities; and WHEREAS, An ambitious, creative, and responsive organization, Kids Oneida continues to innovate new solutions to community needs; and WHEREAS, Launched with two staff and one program, Kids Oneida now has 13 initiatives led by more than 300 staff and providers across the Mohawk Valley; and WHEREAS, Kids Oneida has been instrumental in shifting the landscape of children's services in Central New York and statewide to one that recognizes the value and importance of keeping families together; and WHEREAS, Over its distinguished 20 year history, Kids Oneida has demonstrated continuous service to the residents and communities which it serves; and WHEREAS, The success of Kids Oneida is in direct correlation to the efforts of its staff, 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 Kids Oneida; and WHEREAS, In light of its commitment, dedication and successful efforts, it is the custom of this Legislative Body to extend its highest commendation to Kids Oneida of Utica, New York; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Kids Oneida on October 26, 2017; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Kids Oneida.