We face many changes. But just as the nations of the world have begun to learn to work together more effectively, all of us in Michigan must continue to pull together in a partnership to enhance the stability of our families, to provide real educational opportunities, a safe environment for our children, and to assure a future for our work force.

Acknowledging that government does not have all the answers, we have begun to look more and more to Michigan's communities for direction, assistance and partnerships that will strengthen our families.

• Our contract with the Salvation Army to supplement the existing Emergency Shelter network in the state is an excellent example of an innovative, public/private partnership that benefits the entire state and assures a safety net for Michigan residents.
• Our Communities First pilot projects will test a variety of service delivery models as defined by the local residents and human service agencies to determine which best meet the needs of each locale.
• Our efforts in the area of prosecuting Food Stamp Trafficking, aimed at eliminating vendor fraud, have been another successful state/local endeavor resulting in the reduction of trafficking and helping to assure that those using Food Stamps are those who need them.
• Our cooperative efforts with the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and local human service agencies have helped to increase the dollars available for low-income families.

As we continue to address the problems of dependence on public assistance and innovative ways to resolve them, we must work together for the good of our state. It is in best interests of our communities in particular to embrace the social contract and to look at existing needs that can be fulfilled by public assistance recipients. The involvement of local businesses in creating jobs, job training opportunities and community service experiences are vital to the success of their community to help those who are trying to help themselves. These opportunities will help recipients to grow and move toward independence.

One area which significantly affects the health of our communities is the disillusionment and failure of our youth in schools. We must provide alternatives that allow youth to continue learning, perhaps outside the "standard" classroom. These youth are a valuable resource in Michigan's future. We cannot abandon them without aggressively attempting to meet their needs.

Another concern is the housing available to low-income families within our communities. The availability of quality, affordable housing is an essential component of thriving communities. Through MSHDA, local grass-roots organizations can take advantage of opportunities to refurbish or rehabilitate older homes to revitalize their neighborhoods. These efforts are totally dependent on community involvement and willingness to commit to the betterment of their environment.