Whereas, The citizens of Michigan stand firmly committed to quality afterschool programs because they provide a safe, friendly learning environment for our kids that boosts their academic achievement; promote valued social and academic skills that motivate, challenge and inspire children; support working families by ensuring that their children are safe and productive after the regular school day ends; build stronger communities by involving our students, parents, business leaders and adult volunteers in the lives of our young people; and,

Whereas, Michigan has provided significant leadership in the area of community involvement in the education and well-being of our youth, grounded in the principle that quality afterschool programs are a critical link to helping our children become successful adults ; and,

Whereas, Lights on Afterschool!, a national celebration of afterschool programs on October 14, promotes the critical importance of quality afterschool programs in the lives of children, their families and their communities; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 14, 2004, as Lights On Afterschool! Day in Michigan, and I extend appreciation to all afterschool programs for their efforts to improve the lives of our students, and encourage all citizens of Michigan to assure that every child has access to a safe, friendly place where the lights are on afterschool.