Office of the Mayor

Proclamation

Lawrence, Kansas

WHEREAS:   Community Action Agencies were created when the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 was signed into law; and

WHEREAS:   The East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corporation (ECKAN) was established in 1966; and

WHEREAS:   ECKAN is now celebrating a remarkable 50 year history of working towards the common good in Douglas County; and

WHEREAS:   ECKAN has a rich history in Douglas county of acting as a catalyst in establishing innovative programs and services such as Head Start, Back-to-School Supplies, and the Christmas Bureau; and

WHEREAS:   Community Action Agencies are needed as major participants in the reform of the welfare system as we know it; and

WHEREAS:   Individuals and families on limited income continue to need opportunities to improve their lives and their living conditions, thus ensuring that all citizens are able to live in dignity; and

WHEREAS:   The poverty rate in Douglas County is 19% and there are 21,721 individuals that meet the Federal poverty guidelines.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mike Amyx, Mayor of the City of Lawrence, Kansas, do hereby proclaim May 2016 as

“community action month”

in Douglas County in recognition of the hard work and dedication of Kansas Community Action Agencies.

                                                          Mike Amyx, Mayor

May 3, 2016