Senate Resolution 149
By: Senators Halpern of the 39th, Jackson of the 41st, Merritt of the 9th, Parent of the 44th,
Orrock of the 36th and others
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing and commending the Shepherd Center upon its 50th anniversary; and for other
purposes.
WHEREAS, the Shepherd Center was founded in Atlanta, Georgia, as a private not-for-profit
hospital on August 18, 1975, and it is celebrating 50 years of service; and
WHEREAS, the Shepherd Center's mission is to help individuals with temporary or
permanent disabilities caused by injury or disease rebuild their lives with hope,
independence, and dignity; advocate for their full inclusion in all aspects of community life;
and promote safety and injury prevention; and
WHEREAS, the Shepherd Center has made a profound impact on the citizens of Georgia and
countless individuals worldwide by providing personalized rehabilitation and medical care
for those experiencing brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain,
and other neurological conditions; and
WHEREAS, the Shepherd Center has played a vital role in the community by leading the
1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games Organizing Committee, founding the wheelchair division
of the AJC Peachtree Road Race, advocating for accessible public accommodations and
transportation, and bringing honor as a global leader in neuro-rehabilitation research and
innovation; and
WHEREAS, each year in the United States, approximately 300,000 people are newly
diagnosed with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and multiple sclerosis,
underscoring the critical need for specialized care and rehabilitation provided by institutions
such as the Shepherd Center; and
WHEREAS, the Shepherd Center's culture of hope, humor, and hard work continues to
inspire its patients, families, staff, and the broader community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body
recognize and commend the Shepherd Center upon its 50th anniversary and extend sincere
best wishes for continued success.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed
to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the Shepherd
Center.