Whereas, Special care and attention must be given to young children to ensure that they grow and mature into loving, considerate, productive, and healthy adults capable of caring for themselves; and,

Whereas, This year, many children will suffer from child abuse, neglect, the lack of health care, poor nutrition, and inadequate parenting and child care, all of which jeopardize a young child's opportunity for a happy and healthy life; and,

Whereas, The future of our state depends on the quality of early childhood experiences provided to young children today, and this quality represents a worthy commitment to the collective future of our children; and,

Whereas, Celebrating the importance of young children's needs and concerns throughout Michigan is worthwhile for all our citizens; and,

Whereas, Each April, recognition is given to efforts that foster the well-being of young children, and every week of the month is designated as a time of focus and reflection on a particular issue that has been assessed as a priority for our children; and,

Whereas, The focus of April 2008 includes celebrating community partnerships, promoting healthy children and families, recognizing early childhood professionals, and advocating on behalf of children and families; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the month of April 2008 as Month of the Young Child in Michigan, and I encourage all citizens to participate in the activities associated with this event in addition to recognizing and supporting the needs of young children in our communities.