HR0635

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HOUSE RESOLUTION


 
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    WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of 
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Representatives are pleased to recognize Sister Rosemary 
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Connelly and Misericordia/Heart of Mercy Home for their 
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dedication to children; and

 
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    WHEREAS, The Mission Statement of Misericordia/Heart of 
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Mercy is "to support individuals with developmental 
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disabilities in maximizing their level of independence and 
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self-determination within an environment that fosters 
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spirituality, dignity, respect and enhancement of quality of 
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life; We promote development of natural family and community 
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support, community awareness, education and advocacy"; and

 
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    WHEREAS, Sister Rosemary was appointed to oversee 
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Misericordia in 1969; she made the decision to truly care for 
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the people in her care, babies and youngsters with Down 
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syndrome and other developmental disabilities, instead of 
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letting them lie in their beds; and

 
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    WHEREAS, Her level of caring has made Misericordia a highly 
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rated institution that employs 1,020 people today, caring for 
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560 children and adults on a daily basis; and

 
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    WHEREAS, Misericordia has a wide range of programs to meet 
 


 






HR0635
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the diverse needs of persons with developmental disabilities, 
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including:  residential placement and day-to-day support; job 
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training and employment opportunities; physical, occupational, 
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and speech therapy; fitness and healthy living guidance; social 
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and recreational outings; and opportunities for spiritual 
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growth; and

 
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    WHEREAS, Sister Rosemary has been a fundraiser and driving 
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force for Misericordia for 40 years and also celebrates her 
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60th anniversary with the Sisters of Mercy this year; 
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therefore, be it

 
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    RESOLVED, BY THE  HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE 
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NINETY-SIXTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we 
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congratulate Sister Rosemary Connelly on her anniversary and 
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wish her the best in all her future endeavors; and be it 
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further

 
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    RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be 
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presented to Sister Rosemary Connelly as a symbol of our 
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respect and esteem.