Whereas, Foster Grandparent programs provide adults, age 60 and older, with meaningful volunteer opportunities; and,
Whereas, Each Foster Grandparent spends 15 to 20 hours each week with two to four children to help them meet educational and life skill challenges; and,
Whereas, Each year more than 1,100 Foster Grandparent volunteers contribute approximately 1,000,000 hours in service to nearly 8,000 children with special or exceptional needs; and,
Whereas, Foster Grandparents make a difference by nurturing and mentoring children to help them improve their reading skills, life skills, and to have an overall positive impact on their lives; and,
Whereas, Michigan children benefit from 19 Foster Grandparent programs, serving 59 counties in all areas of the state; and,
Whereas, Foster Grandparent programs partner with more than 2,000 nonprofit organizations to meet a wide range of human and community needs; and,
Whereas, We honor Foster Grandparent volunteers because their significant service on behalf of special children and their families reinforces the strength and future of our communities; and now therefore be it,
Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim January 25, 2008, as Foster Grandparent Volunteer day.