Rep. Barnett offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 206. 

            A resolution to declare March 1-7, 2012, as Choir Therapy Awareness Week in Michigan. 

            Whereas, It is known that the citizenship of Michigan is comprised of challenged and abled people; and

            Whereas, It is known that the disabled portion includes those with physical, mental, genetic, and traumatically acquired challenges; and

            Whereas, Among these broad afflictions of dysfunction are the more commonly known categories of people with such things as Down’s syndrome, autism, traumatic brain injuries, cognitive impairments from birth accidents, emotional illness, and substance abuse disorders, to name just a few; and

            Whereas, It has been documented that music and singing have a healing effect on these and other conditions; and

            Whereas, Choir therapy is the assembling of individuals who share a common challenge, so that they can experience the joy of singing with others. While providing this pleasure, choir therapy also aids the individuals’ recovery through two different mediums: the music itself and the camaraderie of the group; and

            Whereas, Some of the benefits are increased self-esteem, improved memory and related cognitive functions, and enhanced social skills.  In addition, choir therapy members gain the opportunity to construct interpersonal relationships and obtain personal enjoyment through membership in a group which is supportive, educational, and congenial; and

            Whereas, The Therapy Choirs of Michigan (TCM), is a Michigan non-profit organization, with the objective of aiding the rehabilitation of those in need through singing in a choir;  and

            Whereas, The goal of TCM is to create an exceptional group of vocalists, not necessarily in sound, but in spirit.  It aims to provide a therapeutic experience to all who are involved with us, singers and volunteers and audiences alike.  All potential members need is a positive attitude and a willingness to have fun.  Through the choirs, they aim to inspire people to enjoy all aspects of their life and to build their hope for their future; and

            Whereas, The promotion of awareness of the therapy choirs of Michigan is a medium by which so many have, and can continue to benefit; and

            Whereas, The goals of choir therapy are to provide an environment wherein members feel safe, cared about, develop ability to care for others, and become positively engaged in one area of life; and

            Whereas, The observance of Choir Therapy Awareness Week will subsequently promote the application of choir therapy in Michigan; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare March 1-7, 2012, as Choir Therapy Awareness Week in the state of Michigan.