Whereas, This year, many children will suffer from child abuse, neglect, lack of health care, poor nutrition, inept parenting and inappropriate 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 the 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 major concerns throughout Michigan is worthwhile for all of 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 designed for a time of focus and reflection on a particular issue that has been assessed as a priority pertinent to our children; the focus of April 2003 including 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, 2003, as Month of the Young Child in Michigan. 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.