WHEREAS, for nearly four decades, Access Independence has provided critical services and support to enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities and their families in the Shenandoah Valley; and

WHEREAS, established in 1985, Access Independence serves hundreds of clients in Winchester and the counties of Clarke, Frederick, Page, Shenandoah, and Warren by providing the assistance they need to complete daily tasks and thrive in community life; and

WHEREAS, Access Independence is a consumer-driven organization that understands the unique needs of its clients; more than 60 percent of the staff and board of directors have documented disabilities and two-thirds of the management structure consists of people with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, Access Independence cultivates peer mentoring, provides independent living skills, information and referrals, and works to prevent institutionalization; the organization advocates for people with disabilities at all levels, develops community awareness and education programs, and facilitates compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and assistive technology requirements; and

WHEREAS, in the course of one fiscal year, Access Independence also provided tens of thousands of dollars in direct assistance at no charge to clients, including more than 50 wheelchairs, 32 rollator walkers, numerous pieces of medical equipment, and the construction of 21 ramps; and

WHEREAS, Access Independence holds an annual fundraiser to enhance community awareness and support the purchase of assistive items and home modifications; and

WHEREAS, Access Independence has received numerous awards and accolades for its commitment to excellence; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Access Independence hereby be commended for nearly 40 years of outstanding service to people with disabilities and their families; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Access Independence as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for the organization's vital contributions toward helping people with disabilities lead full and engaged lives.