HR1361 99TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR1361 LRB099 22458 MST 49881 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to recognize Nancy Gianni, founder of Gigi's Playhouse, on being designated as one of CNN's Heroes in 2016; and

WHEREAS, Over 450,000 individuals with Down syndrome live in the United States; counting affected parents and siblings, over two million people deal with the diagnosis every single day; those that have Down syndrome and their families face challenges that can stifle happiness, achievement, and acceptance; it takes a great deal of work to give people with Down syndrome a fighting chance for a full and happy life; and

WHEREAS, Nancy Gianni envisioned a better world, one full of potential and acceptance; the first GiGi's Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Center opened 12 years ago; open to all, GiGi's is a place for families and the community to learn about and celebrate the diagnosis of Down syndrome and benefit from free therapeutic and educational programs; today there are 31 free-standing Playhouses throughout the United States and Mexico, serving more than 25,000 participants and families; programs are offered 100% free to all families so that cost will never be a barrier to achievement and acceptance; and

WHEREAS, CNN Heroes is a year-long initiative that honors everyday people for their selfless, creative efforts to help others; 2016 marks the tenth year of the Peabody Award-winning, Emmy-nominated campaign; each year, CNN receives thousands of nominations from around the world; since 2007, the campaign has profiled more than 200 CNN Heroes who are working in more than 80 countries around the world, helping hundreds of thousands of people; and

WHEREAS, Millions are in need of feeling the touch of love that is GiGi's Playhouse; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-NINTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we recognize Nancy Gianni, founder of Gigi's Playhouse, on being designated as one of CNN's Heroes in 2016; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Nancy Gianni as an expression of our esteem and respect.