On October 9, Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C,I-Ballston) presented the ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative to the members of the Law and Finance Committee of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors ahead of their adoption of a resolution declaring Saratoga County to be “thinking Differently”, which will take place at the monthly board meeting on Thursday, October 15. The ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative is about promoting awareness and acceptance of all people, and advocating for the inclusion of all individuals living on the Autism Spectrum and with special needs.

Walsh strives to host and promote programs that expand a sense of inclusiveness throughout the community. She hosted an informational forum on the ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative with local stakeholders in January 2018. In celebration of ThinkDIFFERENTLY Day over the summer, the Saratoga County Fair’s midway and carnival rides opened early for a sensory-sensitive morning with no flashing lights or loud noises. During the summer, many families showed up for the sensory-friendly screening of the Lion King in Clifton Park. It created the opportunity for families to come to the movies for the first time in a judgement-free zone.

“It is an honor to play a role in hosting ThinkDIFFERENTLY programs here in Saratoga County. It is extremely rewarding to see such prominent organizations in our community embrace, support and help to further develop events and activities for people of all abilities,” said Walsh. “The ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative strives to foster a more inclusive community for our neighbors with special needs. Our state and communities are stronger because of our diversity and differences.”

“Saratoga County is a welcoming community to all people and we’re proud to demonstrate that inclusiveness through the adoption of the ThinkDifferently resolution,” said Halfmoon Supervisor Kevin Tollisen, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors. “We thank Assemblywoman Walsh for her promotion of this initiative and look forward to working to ensure that residents and visitors to Saratoga County feel welcome. It’s important that we break down barriers that those with disabilities, and their caregivers, face every day. I’m hopeful that this ignites an important dialog across our county.”

More than 60 communities around New York State have adopted “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” Resolutions to promote a supportive environment for residents with special needs.

To learn more about the ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative and how you can get involved, or to discuss any state matters, please contact Walsh’s district office at (518) 884-8010.