LANSING - Michigan Department of Human Services Director Marianne Udow will address "Future Search Conference: Tribal Early Care and Education Programs and Services" Aug. 28-30 in Acme at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. The Michigan Child Tribal Task Force will sponsor the event.

The Tribal Child Task Force, formed in November 2005, evolved from the efforts of the Department of Human Services and the social service directors from the 12 federally-recognized Native American tribes in Michigan. Its focus is to develop a coordinated vision and service delivery system that focuses on the preservation of Indian families. Additionally, the task force complies with federal rules and regulations that require collaboration in delivering services to Native American children and families to protect, preserve and strengthen Native American children and families both on and off tribal lands.

"Developing a comprehensive framework that allows all our agencies to partner will improve services for Michigan's Native peoples and continue our efforts to protect and preserve strong kinship relationships and important cultural traditions," Udow said.

Invited participants include officials from the Department of Human Services, Office of the Governor, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Children and Families Office, Michigan Departments of Education and Community Health, Michigan's 12 federally recognized Native American tribes, and many others. Udow will be presenting Wednesday's luncheon address.

Conference participants will develop and create a sustainable infrastructure for increased and improved early childhood programs and services for Michigan's tribal children and their families.