HR0635 96TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0635 LRB096 14606 KXB 29444 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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