Whereas, In 2008, the state funded substance use disorder treatment system served 75,000 people.  Eighty percent of all clients participating in and discharged from treatment programs in 2008 had either become abstinent, found employment or found stable housing; and,

Whereas, The most recent household survey data available shows significant reductions among 12-17 year olds for alcohol, tobacco product, marijuana and illicit drug use; and,

Whereas, Of all women declaring that they were pregnant at the time of admission, 73 percent of them reported total abstinence at the time of discharge, which resulted in 273 drug-free births; and,

Whereas, Studies have indicated that a small percentage of people who are in need of substance abuse treatment do not receive it due to the fear of neighbors or community members having negative opinions of them; and,

Whereas, Research shows that substance use disorders are medical conditions that can be effectively treated and that a successful recovery for many suffering from substance use disorders is impeded by the general public's misconceptions about the disease and treatment; and,

Whereas, Resources exist online and throughout communities that help to increase awareness about how substance use disorders affect children, families, and society as a whole; and,

Whereas, By offering forums where people can learn about the myths surrounding substance use disorders, treatment, and recovery, the state of Michigan can encourage, educate, and support those in need of assistance or who are recovering from substance abuse; and,

Whereas, Treatment and recovery provides a renewed outlook on life for those who struggle with substance use disorders as well as bringing family and friends back together; and,

Whereas, The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, and the Michigan Department of Community Health Office of Drug Control Policy invite all residents of Michigan to participate in the 20th anniversary of National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 2009 Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month in Michigan.  I encourage all residents of this state to observe this month with appropriate programs, activities, and ceremonies supporting this year's theme "Join the Voices for Recovery: Together We Learn, Together We Heal."