Clinton County Commissioners Announce Dual Proclamations for March and February Observances
By Emily Wright
LOCK HAVEN— The Clinton County Commissioners announced two new proclamations at their meeting on Thursday, February 27, 2025. The first was a proclamation recognizing March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. The second proclamation recognized the month of February as National Senior Independence Month.
“The Clinton County Commissioners are very proud and honored to recognize Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and we have Stephen Shope here from the PA Treasury. We also have members of the Clinton County Community Connections organization,” said Commissioner Angela Harding.
On behalf of PA State Treasurer Garrity, who was unable to attend the meeting, Stephen Shope represented her to read the proclamation she drafted. The proclamation emphasized the crucial role of inclusion throughout the community and raising awareness for individuals with disabilities.
The proclamation declared that under the seal of the Pennsylvania Treasury, established in 1777, March is recognized as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. The month of March serves as an opportunity to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in every aspect of community life.
In 2014, Congress passed a law allowing states to enact the Achieving A Better Life Experience (ABLE) savings programs to help people with disabilities save money. Pennsylvania’s version, PA ABLE, was established in 2017. PA ABLE allows people with developmental disabilities to save money tax-free without losing the benefits they rely on. They can use these savings for daily expenses, assistive technology, home and vehicle adaptations, and more.
Over 10,000 Pennsylvanians have saved more than $150 million for disability-related needs through PA ABLE. This success is due to the work of community leaders and organizations who spread the word about this valuable program.
Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity thanked the Clinton County Commissioners in the proclamation for their efforts in highlighting Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and focusing on the well-being of their residents.
Commissioner Jeff Snyder read Proclamation No. 2 of 2025, recognizing February 2025 as National Senior Independence Month. The proclamation stated that the month of February is a time to honor and celebrate Clinton County’s older adults and encouraged community engagement to promote social interaction, improved health, and overall life satisfaction.
The proclamation emphasizes that older residents have played a crucial role in shaping our communities with their wisdom, experience, and achievements, and independence is vital for them to maintain dignity and a good quality of life, allowing them to stay actively involved with their families and communities.
Supporting senior independence involves collaboration across all age groups to ensure they have access to healthcare, support services, affordable housing, and opportunities for lifelong learning and community involvement.
“By extending our support beyond February, we send a powerful message that the independence and well being of Clinton County’s older residents remains a year round priority, ensuring their evolving needs are met. Now, therefore we, the Clinton County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim February 2025 as National Senior independence month in Clinton County, Pennsylvania,” Commissioner Snyder read.
