Whereas, 4-H is the largest youth development organization in the United States with over 300,000 members in the State of Florida being a part of the 6.5 million members across the country; and
Whereas, 4-H is a community of young people who are learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills; and
Whereas, the Lee County 4-H Youth Development Program exists to develop young people, ages 5 through 18, and has served young people in our state since 1909; and
Whereas, the 4-H Program has molded itself to meet the needs of our citizens by focusing on developing rural, suburban and urban youth and through the Florida Cooperative Extension, and
Whereas, the program uses the research and knowledge base of our state’s land grant institutions, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences at the University of Florida, known as UF/IFAS Extension; and
Whereas, through “learning by doing” experiences, young people in the 4-H Program practice life skills with the guidance of caring adult volunteer mentors and Cooperative Extension faculty and staff; and
Whereas, 4-H provides Lee County youth the opportunities to develop positive relationships, competencies and attitudes that will assist them in making positive choices for their lives, thereby effectively preparing them to meet the challenges of becoming productive citizens and being workforce ready.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim the week of October 4, 2026 as
4-H WEEK
in Lee County and hereby commends the youth participants for representing their pledge to use their Heads for clearer thinking, their Hearts for greater loyalty, their Hands for larger service, and their Health for better living. 
Duly executed this 6th day of October, 2026.

Whereas, the Florida Department of Health in Lee County has served the residents of Lee County with distinction for seventy-five years, fulfilling its mission to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people through integrated state, county, and community efforts; and
Whereas, since its founding in 1951, the Florida Department of Health in Lee County has advanced public health through disease prevention, health promotion, environmental public health protection, emergency preparedness and response, clinical services, and community partnerships that improve the quality of life for all residents; and
Whereas, the Florida Department of Health in Lee County’s dedicated public health professionals—including nurses, physicians, epidemiologists, environmental specialists, health educators, nutritionists, laboratory personnel, administrative professionals, and support staff—have demonstrated unwavering commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of the community during both routine operations and extraordinary emergencies, including any natural disasters and public health crises; and
Whereas, the Florida Department of Health in Lee County continues to collaborate with local governments, health care providers, educational institutions, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community partners to address current and emerging public health challenges while promoting healthy, thriving, and resilient communities; and
Whereas, the celebration of the Florida Department of Health in Lee County’s 75th Anniversary provides an opportunity to recognize its enduring legacy of excellence and to honor the thousands of employees, volunteers, and community partners whose dedication has positively impacted generations of Lee County residents as well as many individuals who visit or relocate to our community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby recognize October 15, 2026, as the 75th Anniversary of the
Florida Department of Health in Lee County
and expresses its sincere appreciation to their past and present employees, volunteers, community partners, and supporters for their steadfast dedication to improving the health, safety, and quality of life of all who live, work, and visit Lee County.
Duly executed this 6th day of October 2026.

Whereas, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, excluding skin cancers, accounting for approximately 1 in 3 of all new female cancer diagnoses each year; and
Whereas, 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, meaning that in Lee County — home to over 800,000 residents — thousands of women are at risk right now, many of them unaware; and
Whereas, in 2026, an estimated 321,910 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 60,730 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women across the United States; and
Whereas, in Florida alone, more than 23,000 women are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2027, and over 3,000 will lose their lives to the disease — losses that leave families, children, and communities forever changed; and
Whereas, when breast cancer is detected early and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is over 99% — making early detection not just a medical recommendation, but a matter of life and death; and
Whereas, breast cancer death rates have declined by 44% since 1989, due in part to better screening and early detection — and women who receive regular screenings have a 26% lower breast cancer death rate than those who do not; and
Whereas, despite these advances, the five-year relative survival rate drops dramatically to just 30% for distant-stage breast cancer, reinforcing that delayed diagnosis carries a devastating and often fatal cost; and
Whereas, significant disparities persist in breast cancer incidence, stage at diagnosis, and survival rates among racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups, with the incidence of late-stage diagnosis and overall mortality remaining higher among Black women and underserved communities; and
Whereas, access to mammography and breast cancer screening remains inequitable across Lee County, and many residents — particularly low-income, uninsured, and underinsured women — face significant barriers to the life-saving screenings they urgently need; and
Whereas, organizations such as Naples Cancer Advisors are working tirelessly throughout Southwest Florida to bridge these gaps — advancing patient navigation, community education, and advocacy efforts that connect residents with the cancer care and resources they deserve.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim October 2026 shall be known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Lee County and calls upon all residents, healthcare providers, businesses, faith communities, and civic organizations of Lee County to join together to raise awareness, support survivors and caregivers, honor those lost, and take meaningful action through early detection and routine screening. The Board further recognizes and commends the dedicated advocates, healthcare professionals, and nonprofit organizations working to eliminate barriers to cancer care and improve outcomes for all residents of Southwest Florida.
Duly executed this 6th day of October 2026.

Whereas, October is recognized as Careers in Construction Month, a time dedicated to help increase public awareness of the opportunities available in construction trade professions; and
Whereas, the construction industry plays a vital role in building and maintaining the homes, schools, workplaces, infrastructure, and communities that support the quality of life and economic prosperity of Lee County and Southwest Florida; and
Whereas, the construction industry offers pathways to successful and well-paying careers through skilled trades, apprenticeship programs, technical education, and professional occupations, providing opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds to build meaningful careers; and
Whereas, workforce shortages continue to impact the construction industry, making it essential to inspire and prepare the next generation of skilled professionals who will design, build, and maintain our communities; and
Whereas, Build My Future Lee County provides students with hands-on experiences that showcase careers in construction, skilled trades and related professions, allowing participants to engage directly with industry professionals and equipment while exploring future career pathways; and
Whereas, organizations such as the Lee Building Industry Association, industry partners, educators, and community volunteers are committed to promoting career awareness, workforce development, and experiential learning opportunities for students throughout our region; and
Whereas, recognition of Careers in Construction Month and support of Build My Future Lee County aids in awareness of the contributions made by construction professionals and encourages students to consider careers that are critical to the growth of our community.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim October 2026 as
Careers in Construction Month
in Lee County and hereby recognizes Build My Future Lee County as an important community initiative that inspires students, promotes workforce development, and highlights the many rewarding career opportunities within the construction industry.
Duly executed this 6th day of October, 2026.

Whereas, for 30 years, Ronald McDonald House has provided comfort, care, and support to children and families throughout Southwest Florida during some of the most challenging moments of their lives, and since opening its doors in 1996, the organization has remained committed to helping families stay close to their children during medical treatment by providing a welcoming home away from home and vital family-centered programs and services; and
Whereas, the organization has been made stronger through the generosity and dedication of volunteers, donors, healthcare partners, community leaders, businesses, and supporters throughout Southwest Florida who share in its mission of caring for children and families; and
Whereas, in 2026, the organization proudly celebrates 30 years of service to Southwest Florida and begins an exciting new chapter in its history and on October 15, 2026, the organization officially introduces its new name, Ronald McDonald House Southwest Florida, and a refreshed look that more clearly reflects who it is, the families it serves, and its enduring commitment to keeping families together when they need it most; and
Whereas, while its name and visual identity are evolving, its heart, mission, and commitment to Southwest Florida families remain steadfast; and
Whereas, this milestone provides an opportunity for our community to celebrate the organization's remarkable legacy while looking ahead to its next generation of service, compassion, and impact.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida proclaims that October 15, 2026 shall be known as
RONALD McDONALD HOUSE SOUTHWEST
FLORIDA DAY

in Lee County and encourages all its residents to join in celebrating this milestone, recognizing the families served, honoring the individuals and organizations who have supported this important mission, and welcoming the next chapter of Ronald McDonald House Southwest Florida.
Duly executed this 6th Day of October 2026.

Whereas, Lee County proudly employs many veterans who continue their commitment to public service across its departments and professional fields throughout the organization; and

Whereas, the Lee County Department of Transportation staff member Kelly Tucker is a United States Army Veteran and an outstanding Heavy Equipment Operator who continues to serve the residents of Lee County; and

Whereas, Sergeant First Class Tucker recently retired after more than 11 years of honorable service to our nation as a 13M Multiple Launch Rocket System Crewmember; and

Whereas, throughout his military career, Sergeant First Class Tucker demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism, and technical expertise while supporting Army readiness and national defense; and

Whereas, his distinguished service culminated in his selection as a Field Artillery Brigade Master Gunner, a position reserved for highly proficient leaders entrusted with advising commanders, developing Soldiers, and ensuring the tactical and technical excellence of field artillery formations; and

Whereas, it is fitting and proper to recognize Sergeant First Class Tucker for being awarded the Meritorious Service Medal upon his retirement from the United States Army; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby recognize
Sergeant First Class (Retired) Kelly Tucker
for his distinguished military service to our nation and expresses its sincere gratitude for his continued service to the citizens of Lee County.

Duly executed this 15th day of September 2026.

Whereas, diaper need, the condition of not being able to afford a sufficient supply of clean diapers to keep babies and toddlers clean, dry, and healthy, can adversely affect the health and well-being of children and their families; and

Whereas, national surveys and research studies report that nearly one in two families struggles with diaper need, and 48 percent of families delay changing a diaper to extend the available supply; and

Whereas, a daily or weekly supply of diapers is generally an eligibility requirement for babies and toddlers to participate in childcare programs and quality early education programs that enable children to thrive and parents to work; and

Whereas, many parents struggling with diaper need report missing an average of five days of work each month due to an insufficient supply of diapers; and

Whereas, without enough diapers, babies and toddlers risk infections and health problems that may require medical attention, resulting in medical costs, and parents may be prevented from accessing childcare needed to go to work or school, thereby destabilizing the family's economic prospects and well-being; and

Whereas, the people of Evanston recognize that diaper need is a public health issue, and addressing diaper need can lead to economic opportunity for the state's families and communities and improved health for children, thus ensuring all children and families have access to the basic necessities required to thrive and reach their full potential; and

Whereas, the County of Lee is proud to be home to trusted community-based organizations, including the Healthy Start Coalition of Southwest Florida, that recognize the importance of diapers in ensuring health and providing economic stability for families and thus distribute diapers to families through various channels; and

Whereas, through their important work of addressing diaper need, diaper banks play a critical role in supporting families, improving infant health and well-being, and advancing our local and state economic growth; now

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim the week of September 14 through September 20, 2026 shall be known as

National Diaper Need Awareness Week

in Lee County and thank the aforementioned diaper bank, its staff, volunteers, and donors for their dedicated service, and encourage the citizens of Lee County to donate generously to diaper banks and diaper drives and to support those organizations that collect and distribute diapers to families struggling with diaper need so that all children and families in Lee County can thrive and reach their full potential.
Duly executed this 15th day of September 2026.