Agenda - 11-05-2003-5b - Laserfiche WebLink

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ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: November 5, 2003 Action Agenda Item No. ~'~j-~ SUBJECT: Grief Awareness Week DEPARTMENT: County Commissioners ATTACHMENT(S): Proclamation PUBLIC HEARING: (Y/N) No INFORMATION CONTACT: Donna Baker, ext. 2130 Helen Poole, Duke Health Community Care, 620-3853 TELEPHONE NUMBERS: Hillsborough 732-8181 Chapel HiIN 968-4501 Durham 688-7331 Mebane 336-227-2031 PURPOSE: To consider a proclamation designating November 2 through 8, 2003 as "Grief Awareness Week" in Orange County. BACKGROUND: There are approximately 2 million deaths in the United States each year, with each directly affecting 10-12 family members (excluding good friends and close colleagues). Grieving is a natural and normal response to death and other losses and is a healthy way for people to take care of themselves. Cultural traditions and religious institutions have historically recognized the need for community mourning rituals and individual grief expressions. All Orange County residents are urged to be sensitive and supportive of their families, neighbors, friends, and colleagues who are adjusting to a significant loss in their lives, and the setting aside of a week for grief awareness will enhance solidarity with our human mortality and our common need for mourning and healing and will promote spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional health. Helen Poole with Duke Health Community Care will be present at the meeting to provide any additional information to the Board. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with the proclamation. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve the proclamation designating November 2 through 8, 2003 as "Grief Awareness Week" in Orange County and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.