Title
Proclamation recognizing and commending the State Forensic Program administered through the Allegheny County Department of Human Services on their receipt of one of six 2005 Innovations in American Government Awards.
Body
WHEREAS, the State Forensic (Max Out) Program operates through the Allegheny County Department of Human Services Office of Behavioral Health to assist individuals with mental illnesses who have reached the expiration of their maximum prison sentence in state penitentiaries, in an effort to promote their successful re-integration into the community as productive, valuable members of society; and
WHEREAS, the State Forensic Program has successfully re-integrated more than 300 individuals into the community, and in the process has made all necessary medical, mental health, and social services available to the individuals participating; and
WHEREAS, the program has been remarkably successful, as evidenced by a recidivism rate among program participants that is approximately one sixth the national average for former prisoners with diagnosed behavioral health concerns; and
WHEREAS, the Ash Institute for Democratic Governance and Innovation at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government, has recognized the State Forensic Program with one of only six 2005 Innovations in American Government Awards; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Allegheny County Council does hereby congratulate and honor the State Forensic Program and the Department of Human Services Office of Behavioral Health for their continuing dedication to individuals who have very few other places to turn for assistance in securing the services that they so desperately require. This commitment to the dignity and well-being of the County's residents both inspires us and arouses our deepest gratitude. On the occasion of their recognition by the Ash Institute, we offer our congratulations and sincerest thanks for the dedication of all of the individuals who...
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