Whereas, The most precious and valuable asset of our state is our children, and the future of our society depends largely on the emotional, social, physical, and intellectual growth of these most cherished individuals; and,

Whereas, We look to parents to protect and guide their children and inspire in them the importance of honesty, respect, education, empathy, service, and determination; and,

Whereas, Parents who nurture, love, and guide their children help them develop into healthy, caring, loving, responsible, and contributing citizens; and,

Whereas, Research suggests that one of the strongest deterrents to teen alcohol use is when parents always check if other parents are present at teen parties and are involved in their lives; and,

Whereas, Informed parenting adds stability and strength to the lives of children and also helps to reduce social problems such as substance abuse, academic failure, teenage pregnancy, violence, and crime; and,

Whereas, Providing and promoting education and resources for the development of parenting skills will greatly contribute to improving the quality of life for our entire Michigan family and will benefit future generations throughout both peninsulas of our great state; and,

Whereas, Establishing March as Parenting Awareness Month provides an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate individuals who have embraced the challenge of parenthood; it is also an opportunity to promote parenting education, parent involvement, and parent networks throughout our state; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2008 Parenting Awareness Month in Michigan.