Whereas, Through the hard work and dedication of citizens with disabilities throughout this state, individuals have greater access to opportunities in the workplace where their talents and abilities are recognized and rewarded; and,

Whereas, Many public and private disability organizations in Michigan have promoted investing in abilities activities for the past 21 years to increase accessibility to the workplace and shatter stereotypes, which may create employment barriers; and,

Whereas, A growing number of Michigan employers are recognizing the abilities of people with disabilities and demonstrating that employing people with disabilities makes good business sense; and,

Whereas, Many activities and events will be conducted in October to advance the "investing in abilities" theme to promote the employment of people with disabilities and encourage employers to focus on abilities;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 2009 Investing in Abilities Month in Michigan.  I encourage all residents of this state to recognize the great contributions made by people with disabilities.