Oct. 11 Expo offers Technology Center and Virtual Job Fair to provide jobseekers with the tools to succeed

PRESS RELEASE

Media Contacts
Patricia A. Ellis, 313-226-9484 or pager, 313-840-1948
Megan Bracket, 313-226-9409 or pager, 313-840-4321

DETROIT – Public and private stakeholders from across southeast Michigan are working together to put on what may be the largest employment and resource expo in the region. The Southeast Michigan Partnership will hold the second Working Together: Southeast Michigan Employment, Training & Family Resource Expo, on Wednesday, Oct. 11, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., at the Michigan State Fairgrounds & Exposition Center. The event and parking are free.

One of the many services available to jobseekers at the Oct. 11 Expo will be the Technology Center – a bank of 75 computers with Internet access and several printers that will allow attendees to work on their resume, search for jobs online and apply for jobs through the Web. Although the Oct. 11 Expo will officially close at 3 p.m., the Technology Center will remain open until 5 p.m. to accommodate attendees who wish to utilize the computer services. Volunteers will be on hand to assist people. This year’s event will also include a Virtual Job Expo through the Michigan Talent Bank. This service will be active Oct. 9 – 13, 24-hours a day, and provide anyone the opportunity to go to www.uwsem.org/expo and preview the numerous jobs available through more than 100 employers. The Expo’s Technology Center and virtual job fair are made possible through the combined resources of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth and the Michigan Department of Information Technology, which are among the several partners hosting this year’s event.

"It is important that jobseekers take advantage of this opportunity to connect with employers who are recruiting workers, not only at the physical Expo at the Michigan State Fairgrounds, but also at the virtual Expo through the Michigan Talent Bank,” said Ardis Cazeno, director, Labor Exchange Services, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth. “We want to educate jobseekers in the methods and tools used to connect with employers online, a fast-growing trend that shows no signs of slowing down."

In addition to the virtual jobs, the Expo will include job opportunities from more than 130 on-site employers. It will also offer training and career development opportunities, as well as provide information and resources to help individuals and families break down some of the barriers that prevent gaining and retaining employment, such as child care, transportation, and other issues. These opportunities and resources will help provide pathways to success.

The partners involved in this year’s Expo include the Detroit Workforce Development Department, the Governor’s Office for Southeastern Michigan, the Michigan Department of Human Services in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties, the Michigan Department of Information Technology, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth (Michigan Talent Bank), Michigan Works! in Oakland and Macomb counties, the Southeast Michigan Community Alliance, and United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

In addition to the partners, the 2006 Expo is made possible by the following sponsors: the Detroit Free Press, Comcast, Fifth Third Bank; Michigan Department of Human Services in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties; Michigan Works!; Rock Financial, a Quicken Loans Company; and United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

“In these changing times, it’s important to provide opportunities to retain local talent, enhance job skills, and provide the resources and tools needed for individuals and families to succeed,” said Michael J. Brennan, president & CEO, United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “The expo demonstrates the collective power of diverse sectors from across our region working together to improve lives and help southeastern Michigan become the vibrant, knowledge-based community that it is capable of being.”

How to participate in the Oct. 11 Expo? Jobseekers and employers can call the United Way 2-1-1 by dialing 2-1-1 or 1-800-552-1183. You can also go to www.uwsem.org/expo to pre-register. The Expo will be held at the Michigan State Fairgrounds, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Admission and parking are free.

Through the Southeast Michigan Employment, Training and Family Resource Expo, United Way and other members of the Southeast Michigan Partnership are working together to link jobseekers to potential employers, while simultaneously providing access to training and tackling the many barriers to getting or keeping a job. The Southeast Michigan Partnership includes the Detroit Free Press, the Detroit Workforce Development Department; the Michigan Department of Human Services in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties; the Michigan Department of Information Technology; the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth (Michigan Talent Bank), Michigan Works! in Oakland and Macomb counties; the Southeast Michigan Community Alliance; and United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

###

School rankings don't add up

BY PEGGY WALSH-SARNECKI and CHASTITY PRATT
DETROIT FREE PRESS EDUCATION WRITERS

Mistakes have been found in key indicators of which Michigan schools are succeeding and which are not, raising questions about flaws in the system for calculating them and concerns about whether schools have been fairly rated.

"When you put something out that is this inaccurate and has these kinds of holes, you're doing a disservice," said researcher Kurt Metzger, who collects dropout and graduation data for the United Way for Southeastern Michigan, which uses it to make decisions on programs and community service efforts.

Read More

OnCommunity Podcast - Bob Berg

The OnCommunity Podcast is a series produced by United Way for Southeastern Michigan highlighting the innovative ideas and promising work done by area organizations and leaders to improve lives and communities across our region.

In this installment Bob Berg, former Press Secretary for Coleman Young, discusses the legacy of the late Mayor of Detroit.

Listen Now

United Way Calendar of Events

Through October 2006. For more information or additional event listings, please visit www.uwsem.org/learn/calendar.html.

Energy Design Charette presented by the Nonprofit Facilities Center
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Next Energy
>> Learn More

Wayne State University’s Richard C. Van Dusen Forum on Urban Issues
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.,Wayne State University’s McGregor Memorial Conference Center
Kurt Metzger, UWSEM Director of Research, will be the opening speaker for this presentation.
>> Learn More

Town Hall Meeting
Tuesday, September 26
6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Erin Auditorium/Roseville City Hall, 29777 Gratiot, Roseville
Please join us for a Town Hall Meeting focusing on educational attainment, literacy, safe neighborhoods, access to services, building individual and family assets, and more! Come share your concerns with both current elected officials and candidates seeking elected official offices. On-site voter registration will be available and refreshments will be served. Please RSVP one week prior to event.

Town Hall Meeting
Wednesday, September 27
6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Youthville, 7375 Woodward Ave., Detroit
Please join us for a Town Hall Meeting focusing on educational attainment, literacy, safe neighborhoods, access to services, building individual and family assets, and more! Come share your concerns with both current elected officials and candidates seeking elected official offices. On-site voter registration will be available and refreshments will be served. Please RSVP one week prior to event.

Parenting Today Conference - Connecting, Advocating and Leading for Our Children
Saturday, October 7, 2006
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Charles Wright Academy, 19299 Berg Rd., Detroit
Due to space restrictions, you must be pre-registered to attend this conference.
>> Learn More

Race Summit 2006
Sunday, October 8 - Tuesday, October 10
On October 8, 2006, New Detroit, the region’s premier race relations organization, will launch a two-day leadership summit. Southeastern Michigan business, labor, government, religious and community leaders will debate and collaborate on specific measures to break down racial barriers and encourage economic and social revitalization in Southeastern Michigan.
>> Learn More

Planning for Success presented by the Nonprofit Facilities Center
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Boy Scouts of America – Detroit Council
>> Learn More

The 2006 Southeast Michigan Employment, Training and Family Resource Expo
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Michigan State Fairgrounds, Detroit
>> Learn More

Campaign Cabinet Meeting
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
7:30 a.m., American Axle & Manufacturing

Funding & Financing Strategies presented by the Nonprofit Facilities Center
Thursday, October 26, 2006
8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. , Boy Scouts of America – Detroit Council
>> Learn More

Women's Initiative Event**
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Time and Location TBD
For more information contact Lynda Parham, 313-226-9297.

UWSEM Board Meeting
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Location TBD
For more information contact Peter Poulos, 313-226-9333.

** This event is invitation only.

Versus Becomes And---Finding Common Ground

Management vs. Labor. Ford vs. GM vs. Chrysler. Comerica vs. Chase vs. Fifth Third. Lear vs. Visteon. City vs. Suburbs. Politically Right vs. Politically Left. Domestic vs. Global.

Most days, we can find competition between groups or organizations fighting for market position, or for social justice, or for a particular point of view. Yet, what often goes unseen is when those same competitors come together around common purpose.

United Way is one of the few places in community that VERSUS becomes AND. I am often in work where companies/individuals that compete fiercely check the competition at the door and sit next to each other---work with each other--- for the purpose of improving community. Quite honestly, I get to see each day our region at its best.

The other day, management AND Labor Detroit Newspaper Partnership, Detroit Free Press, Detroit News came together to help community. Many in our region often have the imprint of strife from the strike long ago. Not today. Not now. Not for the purpose of community.

This is one example of how the leadership of management (Publisher David Hunke) and the leadership of labor (local union presidents/representatives) put community first. The focus is on writing a 'new story' of progress for the region.

If you would like to see this coming together for community, just click on the short video below.

Race Summit 2006

The summit, to be held October 8-10, 2006, will bring together leaders from business, labor, government, religious and community organizations in Southeastern Michigan. Summit participants will address specific issues recently identified through a United Way for Southeastern Michigan community survey and work together to break down racial barriers.

Although the summit’s focus is on Southeastern Michigan, we believe the model of leadership openly confronting the problem of racial divide in order to develop an action plan that fosters co-operative interracial regional development is applicable nationally.

Learn More

Ramped up

Project highlights contagion of giving
By Bobby Ampezzan, The News-Herald

SOUTHGATE — Last week, Charles Lakins got a secondhand gift unlike any other: a wheelchair ramp.

He has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, a progressive, degenerative condition affecting the central nervous system and musculature.

"With no cure, you know what to expect," he said.

This summer could be his last.

Lakins, 55, is one of the latest people in the area to receive a free ramp, a product of the Ray West Memorial Ramp Project, a joint venture between labor unions and the United Way.

But Lakins' gift also is the product of his relationship with Jane Mackey, an aide in the office of U.S. Rep. John Conyers Jr. (D-14th District).

Continue reading this story.

Jack Lessenberry Essays and Interviews - Violent Crime

Jack Lessenberry writes:

Years ago, when I was a young reporter at a newspaper in another state, my editor got very excited about a story.

A new government report indicated a dramatic drop in crime, especially violent crime, and I was to dig deeper into this and write about it. Unfortunately, when I dug into it, I found something else.

Certain cities, including cities in our state, hadn’t got their data in to the federal government in time for the report. Some of this was probably due to normal bureaucratic inefficiency.

But it also seemed clear to me that some places deliberately delayed their reporting because their numbers didn’t look so good. Crime, in other words, hadn’t really declined at all. And my marvelous, life-is-getting-better story died, stillborn.

Ever since, I have been skeptical of any stories indicating that crime has dramatically risen or fallen in any particular year. Crime is like climate change. Things fluctuate year to year, but what matters is what happens over a longer period of time.

Violent crime clearly has declined over the last few decades, but not because of government policies. We haven’t had as much in large part because our population has been aging since the postwar baby boom started to slow. The median age nationally and in Michigan used to be under 30. Now, half of us are over 36.

More than half of all white Americans are over 40. The older you get, the less likely you are to commit violent crimes. At age 54, I have to admit, I can’t run from the police as fast as I used to.

But if the latest FBI statistics are correct, then why are crime rates again going up? One explanation may be the economy.

There may also be a more ominous explanation. Kurt Metzger, who is now with the United Way of Southeastern Michigan, knows more about population trends than anyone else I know. He spent years with the Census Bureau, then ran a population studies institute at Wayne State University. Some years ago, he told me to watch for a spike in crime in Detroit, starting about now.

• Click here to continue reading Jack Lessenberry's Violent Crime Essay

• Click here to listen to Jack Lessenberry's audio story

"Hustling Hope"

You could just tell that every word out of her mouth came with conviction. Experience. Determination. Purpose.

Eylastine Green-Roberts is the Superintendent of the YMCA Service Learning Academy --- school for over a thousand youngsters in elementary and middle school located near seven mile and the Southfield Freeway.

Of her students, 75% qualify for the free lunch program because of the presence of poverty at home.

Eylastine used a term that stuck with me. She leaned forward on the table, looked me straight in the eye and said, "We are hustling hope. That's what we are doing. Hustling Hope."

She recognizes that for many of her students, they have never been beyond his/her own neighborhood. One of her goals is that every student in her school gets a chance to travel while in school. Already, the students have made their way to Chicago, Toronto and Ann Arbor. That isn't good enough for Eylastine. She wants all her students to travel overseas.

Why?

As Eylastine said, "So they can see that this world is theirs. We just need to help them see it."

In case you are wondering, her total student population scored 92% on the MEAPS. Eylastine and the teachers at the Academy might be 'Hustling Hope', but they also are making a significant impact on 1,000 futures.

A key area of focus for United Way is having students ready for his/her future. Whether it is programs like Metro Detroit's Promise, Success by Six, Attendance Initiative or our literacy initiative, all are targeted to make sure kids are ready for school and experience success.

Thanks for reading....pass it on.

Mentor Michigan Podcast

First Gentleman, Daniel Mulhern discusses why mentoring our youth matters with members of the AFL-CIO and the United Way. Click here for the accompanying Powerpoint presentation.
Listen Now

Sunday Edition Podcast - 2006 Torch Drive

Beth Noble, UWSEM Vice President of Resource Development and Pat McCann, UWSEM Director of Volunteer Services discuss the 2006 Torch Drive, Days of Caring, the history of the United Way and United Way's role today with 99.5 WYCD's News Director, Bob Schuman. Listen Now

OnCommunity Podcast - Ozzie Rivera

The OnCommunity Podcast is a series produced by United Way for Southeastern Michigan highlighting the innovative ideas and promising work done by area organizations and leaders to improve lives and communities across our region.

In Part I of this installment Osvaldo (Ozzie) Rivera, Director of Multicultural Affairs at Madonna University, discusses Hispanics and Latinos. Who are they? Where do they come from? What do they want? Listen Now

In Part II of this installment Rick David, Vice President Strategic Relations, UWSEM and Osvaldo (Ozzie) Rivera, Director of Multicultural Affairs at Madonna University, discuss the meaning of community. Listen Now

Poverty Defined

I was asked recently--- "what does someone mean when they use the term 'poverty rate'?"

What is poverty?

"Poverty is hunger. Poverty is lack of shelter. Poverty is being sick and not being able to see a doctor. Poverty is not having access to school and not knowing how to read. Poverty is not having a job, is fear for the future, living one day at a time. Poverty is losing a child to illness brought about by unclean water. Poverty is powerlessness, lack of representation and freedom."

As described by the World Bank

How is poverty defined in the U.S.?

Condition of people whose annual family income is less than a "poverty line" set by the U.S. government

How is the Poverty Line set?

Poverty thresholds were originally derived in 1963-1964 using U.S. Department of Agriculture food budgets designed for families under economic stress and the data about what portion of their income families spent on food. That calculation continues, with some modification, today.

What is that line today?

For a single individual, the poverty line is $9,810. An individual working full time at minimum wage would be below the poverty line.

For a family of four, the threshold is $20,000. If you had a job at $10 an hour and you were supporting three children, you would be below the poverty line.

What are some facts I might not know about poverty:

• From 1970 to 2000, the number of urban census tracks with poverty rates over 40% doubled: that was also true for Southeastern Michigan.
• In the tri-county area, over 440,000 residents live in at or below the poverty line: that would fill up the "Big House" at U of M four times over.
• Concentration of neighborhood poverty leads inexorably to the concentration of school poverty, undermining almost every other effort by the public, private, and volunteer sectors to educate the children of low-income families.
• While there are more whites in poverty in America than individuals of color, poverty has affected disproportionately minority communities --- particularly African American.
• High Poverty Urban Neighborhoods (defined as having a poverty rate higher than 40%) are especially detrimental to labor market prospects of young black men. For example, 51% of young black men in High Poverty Neighborhoods in Detroit weren't in school or employed.
• In 1980, there were 3 times more black men in college than university/college; in year 2000, there are more black men in prison than in college/university.
• A 1-percent increase in city employment raises home values by $6,000 in nearby suburbs.

Where can I learn more?

• National Poverty Center - University of Michigan
• Brookings Institution
• The World Bank
• Institute for Research on Poverty
• U. S. Department of Human Services
• U. S. Census Bureau

If I or I know of someone who needs help, where do I begin?

You can call United Way's help line by dialing 211.

Is there work being done to make progress on the issue?

I wrote recently about this --- you can learn more by clicking here.

Thanks reading....pass it on.

Southeast Michigan’s Hope

United Way for Southeastern Michigan has been working diligently to transform its business model into one that better addresses underlying causes of the most serious problems plaguing our region.

Since the fall of 2005 we’ve spent considerable time reaching out to residents of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties to hear about issues that mattered most to them. We asked residents to identify a few vital areas in which they thought United Way, with an intense focus, could create lasting change in our region.

The feedback was incredible, in fact, unparalleled. We heard the voices of more than 6,500 metro residents, through 85 personal interviews with key leaders, 25 focus groups and over 6,400 responses to our community survey. After thoroughly analyzing the data, we found that the common aspiration (or shared hope) for our region is that:

All people across southeastern Michigan have the educational and economic opportunities needed to succeed and thrive.

That’s southeast Michigan’s hope, put simply.

The community told us that in order for United Way to move toward making its aspiration a reality -- one that we can sustain long-term -- our work needs to focus on three broad categories:

• Educational Preparedness – People are ready to succeed
• Economic Security – People are self-sufficient and secure
• Basic Needs – People are supported in times of crisis

If we are successful we will not only be able to get more children prepared to succeed in school by age 6, prepare more adults for the new economy and get more families into homes in strong neighborhoods, we’ll be able to address issues that cause them to struggle in the first place. That’s how lasting change happens. And what matters more than that?

United Way sets lower goal for annual campaign

More people need help, fewer can give, officials say

SHABINA S. KHATRI, FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER, writes:

Only the earliest risers caught a glimpse of the flame lit Friday morning at the United Way's 54-foot torch at Jefferson and Woodward in Detroit. That's because keeping the torch lit for more than a couple hours seemed like a needless expense.

The irony did not escape leaders of the United Way for Southeastern Michigan, which kicked off its 58th annual Torch Drive fund-raising campaign with a $61-million goal -- $5.5 million less than last year's goal.

Chief Executive Officer Mike Brennan said the group understood that as need increases, fewer people can afford to give.

"We have an unprecedented economic contraction that's taking place," he said, adding that since 2000 metro Detroit has lost 27% of its manufacturing jobs. "When you have those types of sustained losses over time, it's going to affect the private contributions to United Way."

But, he said, the charity remains optimistic about reaching its goal by Nov. 15.

Across the street from Hart Plaza, where the ceremony took place, a man was slumped in a wheelchair, an empty cup in his hands. Another man dressed in ragged clothing walked wearily down Jefferson, head lowered. Both emanated a desperation that leaders say has ceased to evoke the empathy of those in better straits.

As the number of people in similar situations has increased, so has the number of people who are seeking help for the first time.

Cynthia Miller, a 51-year-old Detroit resident, presented her story Friday.

She said that last year United Way built a wheelchair ramp for her 28-year-old son Phillip, who suffered severe brain damage after a 2003 car crash.

"Understand that in one moment, adversity can enter your life," said Miller, who took an early retirement from her job as a postal worker to care for her son. "Even though you might have not had your own adversity, consider others that are going through things that are no fault of their own -- and give."

Now, Miller works part-time at the United Way's 211 information referral center, which took 9,500 calls last month from people seeking help. That was a 50% increase over July and an all-time high in requests for help from the line, which debuted in southeastern Michigan in December, Brennan said.

Contact SHABINA S. KHATRI at 586-469-8087 or skhatri@freepress.com.

Torch Drive sets goal to raise $61 million

Donations to United Way for Southeastern Michigan help to fund 300 area programs.

Mark Hicks and Santiago Esparza of The Detroit News write:

Three years ago, Chrystal Jendrowski needed a helping hand.

Once a substitute teacher, the Orion Township resident had been temporarily homeless before learning that her son, Noah, was unable to speak more than a few words.

Hoping to find help, she was referred to a free home-based literacy program for young children funded by the United Way for Southeastern Michigan's Women's Initiative.

Noah was diagnosed with dyspraxia, a developmental disorder, and enrolled in the two-year Parent-Child-Home program to improve his speech and reading skills.

Thanks to the program, administered by Catholic Social Services of Oakland County, Noah, now 6, speaks more clearly and is a successful first-grader.

"It was a great transformation," said Jendrowski, 36, who now lives in Lake Orion with her husband and two sons. United Way support, she said, "helped me bring out the best What they do is phenomenal."

The United Way for Southeastern Michigan launched its annual Torch Drive on Friday to help fund more than 300 programs in the region. This year's fundraising goal for the campaign, which runs through Nov. 15, is $61 million. Last year's goal was $66.5 million. More than $64 million was raised.

United Way officials on Friday morning lit a 54-foot high torch on Jefferson in front of Hart Plaza to symbolize their fundraising efforts.

Richard Dauch, Torch Drive chairman, said the nonprofit will rely heavily on its volunteers.

"We will need each and every one of you in the weeks to come to achieve that goal," said Dauch, also co-founder, CEO and chairman of Detroit-based American Axle & Manufacturing. "This is a Detroit tradition."

With a sagging economy and a 25 percent decrease in manufacturing jobs since 2000 in the area, the organization faces "an unprecedented demand for help and services," said Michael J. Brennan, United Way's CEO and president. "We're trying to provide access to resources for people who typically haven't had to ask for help."

The economic downturn has also spurred an uptick in calls to United Way's 211 call center, which was launched in December and maintains a database of more than 6,000 regional services and programs that help residents find counseling, elderly care, emergency shelters, job training and other opportunities.

More than 50,000 calls have been placed this year.

You can reach Mark Hicks at (313) 222-2300 or mhicks@detnews.com.

Learn to Read by Grade Three: Read to Learn Grade Three and Beyond

After telling me she liked broccoli, could make pancakes, and loved to draw, Toya, age 5, leaned over and whispered in my ear, "You know what I am really good at?"

I said, "no, tell me."

"Reading. I'm really good at reading."

I had just started my day long journey after lighting the United Way Torch at 6:40 am to launch the 58th Torch Drive Campaign.

To get to Toya, I left Heart Plaza and headed up I-75 to begin traveling over a 100 miles in our region: from the corner of Ferry and Chene on the east side of Detroit where Neighborhood Service Organization is located, to Leaps and Bounds on Packard Ave off of Van Dyke in Warren, to Oakland Family Services at the end of Orchard Lake Rd. in downtown Pontiac, to the Rouge River Library/Guidance Center downriver.

I saw a wide spectrum of socio-economic, racial diversity and physical surroundings. But one thread I saw in common: a fierce focus on teaching our youngest citizens to read.

There were professionals, parents and volunteers working at these resource centers (where your United Way dollars are at work) to ensure that our children are acquiring one of life's most important skills: reading.

Why?

Research has taught us over and over that 80% of the brain develops by age three. The most powerful indicator of academic success is being able to read at grade level by grade three. Simply, children LEARN to READ by grade three; they READ to LEARN grade three and beyond.

We are asking every resident in the tri-county area to join in. Imagine what we can do if we work together. When we combine financial resource, with proven paths of success, with trained professionals, and committed volunteers, neigborhoods make progress. Families make progress. Children make progress. Just like Toya.

To get involved, just click on www.onewaytohelp.org.

Thanks for reading....pass it on.

United Way kicks off fund-raising campaign

David Coates / The Detroit News

Cynthia Miller says United Way helped her get a wheelchair ramp for her son Phillip. Behind her are, left to right, Phillip Miller; Anthony Adams, deputy mayor of Detroit; Michael Brennan, president and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan, and Richard Dauch, 2006 Torch Drive chair.

Santiago Esparza of The Detroit News writes:

DETROIT -- The United Way for Southeastern Michigan kicked off its 58th annual Torch Drive fund-raising campaign this morning at Hart Plaza with officials targeting $61 million in donations through Nov. 15.

A 54-foot torch was lit on Jefferson Avenue at Woodward to symbolize the campaign, which has targeted $5.5 million less than last year's goal. Money raised goes for a host of programs across Metro Detroit.

"The efforts of the United Way are needed now much more than ever," said Detroit Deputy Mayor Anthony Adams this morning during the campaign kickoff.

As part of the kickoff, hundreds of volunteers this week have completed community projects such as home improvements and creating a library.

Officials said tough economic times hit nonprofits hard, causing donations to dry up. They are optimistic that people will step up anyway.

"We know these are tough times, but it's in these times that the residents of southeastern Michigan shine," said United Way CEO and President Michael Brennan.

Cynthia Miller of Detroit has experienced the help the United Way provides. The 51-year-old's son Phillip, 27, was seriously injured in a car crash three years ago. Miller asked the United Way for help obtaining a wheelchair ramp so her son could easily get in and out of their home.

"The United Way means so much to us because of how much our family has been helped," Miller said. "Here is an organization we have probably seen and passed over and not seen the depths of help that comes from it. Adversity can happen to you and none of us are prepared for it."

Miller said she is happy to help the United Way spread the word about its efforts and need for money to fund projects.

"I feel so blessed despite this accident," she said. "My son is alive and I can tell the hopeless there is hope."

You can reach Santiago Esparza at (313) 222-2127 or sesparza@detnews.com.

IN OUR OPINION UNITED WAY: Help, in Tough Times

The Detroit Free Press writes

It is a sign of tough times when United Way for Southeastern Michigan sets a lower fund-raising goal for its annual Torch Drive than what was raised the year before. That makes it crucial for those who can contribute to make sure they do so.

Even that requires getting past the worry that your job could be the next to disappear or that increased costs of health care will wipe out your next pay raise. From autoworkers to teachers, more and more workers understand that layoffs, buyouts and givebacks are the name of the game.

Yet things will get even tougher if this region can't maintain its foundation of community caring. That includes not just the food banks and shelters, but groups like Boy Scouts and Girls Scouts, literacy and health care programs that give children a chance to blossom into a promising adulthood. With a little help from everyone, many of today's hardships can be deflected so the next generation at least has a fighting chance.

The United Way contributes to the support of hundreds of vital agencies throughout the region. Now into its second year as a tri-county agency, it has also had a broader impact with initiatives such as the 211 phone service launched last year. The referral line serves as a central place for callers who need help and offers a glimpse into the area's hardships. For the last few months, the top request has been for help with utility bills.

This year's goal for the Torch Drive, which officially kicks off today, is $61 million, almost 5% less than last year's result of $64 million. Even that may represent a challenge. Yet the Detroit region has always had a reputation for generosity. Now is the time to promote hope by helping those who need it.

Donate online at www.onewaytohelp.org. For further information on donating, call 313-226-9300.

United Way’s Torch Drive engages community to improve lives

PRESS RELEASE

Media Contacts
Patricia A. Ellis, 313-226-9484 or pager, 313-840-1948
Megan Bracket, 313-226-9409 or pager, 313-840-4321

DETROIT – United Way for Southeastern Michigan kicked off its 58th Torch Drive campaign on Sept. 8. Richard E. Dauch, chair of the 2006 Torch Drive and co-founder, chairman and CEO, American Axle & Manufacturing, was joined by Michael J. Brennan, president & CEO, United Way for Southeastern Michigan, and other guests for an early morning lighting of United Way's 54-foot high torch in downtown Detroit to officially start this year’s campaign. This year's fundraising goal is $61 million. Torch Drive contributions help provide funding for hundreds of programs and services in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.

"This region is facing unprecedented, challenging times,” said Dauch. “As in decades past, United Way is there to help those who need it most. With hard work, good planning, teamwork and commitment, United Way can continue to provide assistance. If there was ever a time for all of us to work together to achieve the Torch Drive goal, it is now.”

As part of its kickoff, United Way also engaged hundreds of volunteers in Days of Caring projects throughout the week, doing mini makeovers – painting, cleaning and creating beautiful resource libraries at four nonprofit organizations throughout southeastern Michigan. United Way also supplied new children's books for each site. United Way's Nonprofit Facilities Center (NFC) coordinated the design of the resource centers working with the Detroit Collaborative Design Center, a nonprofit design center located within the University of Detroit Mercy’s School of Architecture. The project focused on designing a playful space that encourages children to read and learn. The resource libraries will help encourage early childhood literacy and learning opportunities, which is critical for a child's development and lifelong success.

“We know these are tough times, but it’s in these times that the residents of southeastern Michigan shine,” said Brennan.

Brennan added, “No one organization can meet all the demands by itself. Just as the community came together to create resource libraries to enhance early childhood literacy, we have an even greater opportunity as a region to work together to address human service issues and make a lasting change in peoples lives.”

To contribute to the Torch Drive visit www.onewaytohelp.org or call 313-226-9300.

United Way for Southeastern Michigan mobilizes the caring power of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties to improve lives in measurable and lasting ways throughout the region. The organization is led by a diverse group of volunteers from business, labor, government, human services, education and the community. United Way provides opportunities to invest in the metropolitan Detroit community through its annual Torch Drive and is a leader in convening partners to impact local residents each year by increasing economic self-sufficiency, protecting children and youth at risk, strengthening families, empowering neighborhoods and communities, and promoting health and wellness. Additional information is available at www.uwsem.org.

###

United Way kicks off 58th annual Torch Drive campaign, Sept. 8

MEDIA ADVISORY

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Patricia A. Ellis, 313-226-9484 or pager, 313-840-1948
Megan Bracket, 313-226-9409 or pager, 313-840-4321

DETROIT – United Way for Southeastern Michigan will kick off its 58th annual fundraising campaign Friday Sept. 8 with an early morning lighting of the organization’s 54-foot torch, located at the intersection of Woodward and Jefferson, in downtown Detroit. After the Torchlighting ceremony, more than 130 volunteers will take part in United Way’s Days of Caring, giving their time at local nonprofits to participate in beautification, clean-up and painting projects, as well as packing food for area pantries. The goal of the 2006 Torch Drive is $61 million. The campaign will continue through Nov. 15.

A main focus of this year’s Days of Caring is the creation of four resource library centers at nonprofit agencies in Detroit and in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. Leading up to kickoff, volunteers will do mini makeovers, painting and cleaning existing spaces and constructing a special child-friendly bookshelf structure unique to each agency. On Sept. 8, volunteers will stock the renovated centers with books and educational toys to encourage early childhood literacy and learning, especially for children birth through age six. The newly created spaces will be unveiled throughout the day to the families and communities they serve.

United Way's Nonprofit Facilities Center (NFC) coordinated the design of the resource centers working with the Detroit Collaborative Design Center, a nonprofit design center located within the University of Detroit Mercy’s School of Architecture. The project focused on designing a playful space that encourages children to read and learn. The NFC works with nonprofit organizations in southeastern Michigan to ensure that the nonprofit’s facility most effectively and efficiently supports their mission and those they serve.

The following activities will provide several interview and photo opportunities as United Way kicks off its 2006 campaign, making a difference in the lives of children and families throughout our region. The times noted are the best times for media.

WHAT: United Way’s Campaign Kickoff and Torchlighting ceremony

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 8. Brief program at 6:30 a.m., Torchlighting at 6:40 a.m. (timed for live news coverage)

WHERE: Hart Plaza, downtown Detroit

WHO: Richard E. Dauch, 2006 Torch Drive chair and co-founder, chairman and CEO, American Axle & Manufacturing, will be joined by Anthony Adams, deputy mayor, City of Detroit; Michael J. Brennan, president and CEO, United Way for Southeastern Michigan; and Cynthia Miller, who began working in United Way’s 2-1-1 call center after her son Phillip received a wheelchair ramp from United Way in 2005.

---

WHAT: Resource Center unveiling at Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO) in Detroit

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 8. 9 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.

WHERE: 5470 Chene, at E. Ferry, Detroit (north of Warren Ave., south of I-94)

WHY: To create a place for children and families in Detroit that will provide materials to develop children’s literacy skills from birth, allowing them to be successful in school.

WHO: Dauch and Brennan will join approximately 25 families served by NSO to explore the new center. They will read stories and interact with the children participating in art projects, such as alphabet collages and painting flowerpots.

---

WHAT: Resource Center unveiling at Leaps & Bounds in Warren

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 8. 10:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: 8129 Packard, Warren (Enter from back parking lot off Hupp St., south of 9 Mile, east of Van Dyke)

WHY: To create a colorful place for children in Macomb County to learn and grow from birth.

WHO: Approximately 25 families will be participating in activities that foster parent/child interaction and early learning. Executive Director Denise Dorsz will be joined by Pastor Roger Facione, Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, to read to the children and provide other activities.

---

WHAT: Volunteers refurbish visitation rooms at Oakland Family Services in Pontiac

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 8. 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

WHERE: 114 Orchard Lake Rd. (west of Woodward, at Front St.) (Media need to sign in at front desk.)

WHY: To create a pleasant atmosphere by cleaning, painting and refurbishing Oakland Family Services’ foster care visitation rooms.

WHO: Approximately 12 volunteers from St. Mary’s Prep High School will participate throughout the day.

---

WHAT: Resource Center unveiling at the Guidance Center’s Family Resource Center in the River Rouge Library

WHEN: Friday, September 8. 4:15 p.m. – 6 p.m.

WHERE: 221 Burke St. (south of Coolidge Hwy., east of Jefferson Ave.)

WHY: To create a place that can serve as an after-school safe haven for children and families in the downriver communities.

WHO: Approximately 30 toddlers, preschoolers and their families will be making bookmarks, puppets and nursery rhyme books.

---

United Way for Southeastern Michigan mobilizes the caring power of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties to improve lives in measurable and lasting ways throughout the region. The organization is led by a diverse group of volunteers from business, labor, government, human services, education and the community. United Way provides opportunities to invest in the metropolitan Detroit community through its annual Torch Drive and is a leader in convening partners to impact local residents each year by increasing economic self-sufficiency, protecting children and youth at risk, strengthening families, empowering neighborhoods and communities, and promoting health and wellness. Additional information is available at www.uwsem.org. Contributions for the 2006 Torch Drive can be made online at www.onewaytohelp.org.

###

American Community Survey Shows that Income is Down Across the State and Poverty is on the Increase and Spreading Throughout the Tri-County

One expects our poor economy, post-9/11, to have impacted the State of Michigan and this region over the last five years. New data, released by the Census Bureau on August 29, shows clearly how it has impacted both our income and, by extension, the number of people who are living below the poverty level. What is most disturbing is the fact that the economy's effects have found their way into the lower middle class and middle class. Now, those who never thought they would need assistance are looking for help and the social and human service network of southeast Michigan is feeling the strain.

2005 American Community Survey: 2005 Selected Economic Characteristics

• Overview [60 KB]
• All U.S. States, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico [607 KB]
• Michigan Cities and Townships with 65,000 or More Population [207 KB]
• Michigan’s 15 Congressional Districts of the 109th Congress [188 KB]
• State of Michigan Counties with 65,000 or More Population [257 KB]

The Other Divide

There has been a great deal written about the current Digital Divide facing America and the world. As we learn through Thomas Friedman's The World is Flat, the availability of access to knowledge through the web is creating new access to knowledge and networks.

The Digital Divide---those who have access to the technology/knowledge versus those who don't--- is one gap that stunts the impact of this force. But as importantly, is the Other Divide ---the time to learn and use it, the ability to navigate it, and the inclusion of people actually using it. That is, there are millions of individuals that have "access", but don't have either the time, ability or the sense that the technology includes them.

When a mom is working a job (or two), raising children and keeping all things going forward, the luxury of having the time to touch this "flat world" is difficult. Hence, there is lost opportunity for all.

When a elder resident has access to the tools, but finds frustration in navigating and utilizing technology---then gives up trying, we miss an important contributor.

When users of technology have a commonality of interests, but there is an absence of racial diversity, strength is not created.

For example, the three-day international Wikimania conference at Harvard Law School had only one African-American in attendance. Ndesanjo Macha, a trained lawyer and now the director of the largest Boys and Girls club in Greensboro, N.C. is that person.

He said in a recent New York Times article, "They are all white, and to me its very interesting-- it shows that the world is not flat, that the world is still round." Mr. Macha is championing the expansion of Wikipedia's Swahili dictionary.

As technology 'empowers' the world, civic organizations must make sure every possible channel of participation are utilized to ensure all are welcome and all have a path to be included. Absent of that discipline, progress will not be as great.

Why?

An observation by Carlos Ghosn, CEO of Renault/Nissan, in a recent Time magazine article describes this strength:

"It's amazing how much people of different backgrounds and cultures working together can deliver, vs. people of the same culture on the same problem. The solutions are richer, much more innovative and often more powerful because they are completely thinking out of the box and are not determined by any preconceived ideas, as when you are coming from the same culture."

That is why the Community Action Survey of United Way utilized many paths to garner input: face to face meetings, group forums, hand written surveys, the personal interviews on the telephone (211) ---along with the use of the web. No one channel is the path, but combined, we all end up with a more powerful result.

Finding the ways to have technology broaden the inputs/voices/knowledge, not lessen, is one of the keys to progress. Take a look at how technology was used to include the voice of the wider community in United Way's recent effort around --- Feed the Mind.

Poverty: A Way Forward?

The question facing communities across the country and right here in Southeastern Michigan is:

"When you have so much need in so many areas, how do you make progress?"

Many private organizations (foundations, United Ways...) and public institutions (City governments, State governments...) are reaching similar conclusions.

• Focus efforts and resources against an agreed set of priorities
• Work together instead of in silos
• Cross the geographic, social, racial and economic barriers
• Measure your work and results
• Build on what we know --- through research and experience
• Make sure all are welcome

There is a powerful description of this in action in the New York Times on the recent report by Mayor Bloomberg's Commission on Economic Opportunity who were charged by the Mayor to eradicate poverty in New York City. The commission is being led by Richard Parsons, the chairman of Time Warner and Geoffrey Canada, who runs Harlem Children's Zone, one of the most recognized anti-poverty programs in the country. They looked locally, nationally and internationally for the best work, strongest research, and the most promising practices in order to put forth recommendations. Their conclusions put focus on three populations

1. Young Children
2. Young Adults
3. Working Poor

Immediately, the report caused worries that the recommendations don't include other pivotal populations --- like the elderly, unemployed and homeless. Yet, Merryl Tisch, chairwoman of the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, called the focusing of efforts "realistic." "You can't do everything in one fell swoop," she said.

The work of United Way today is striving to bring focus on areas within the region that citizens feel great progress is possible. The journey of focus is reaching out through traditional and non-traditional channels to ensure the voices of residents are heard and included.

For example, click here to listen to one mom describe the future she desires for her children.

To read the article on the work in New York City, click here.