The Honorable Jennifer Granholm
Office of the Governor
PO Box30013
Lansing, MI 48909
Dear Governor Granholm,
In these times of uncertainty and hardship it is good to reflect upon all the great blessings that God has given to us here in Michigan. The abundance of natural recourses and the teamwork and resolve of the citizens of this fair state is truly phenomenal. People here truly care about the welfare of those around them. Concerning the welfare of the young people of Michigan is the reason for this letter. For years now our "at risk” youth have been brushed aside by the juvenile correction system; put into facilities, fed, clothed, and taught how to live "in the system". This has led to more and more recidivism in the juvenile system and until recently there have been few options other than juvenile home, jail, or sending them right back out to the same hurtful environment that they came into the system from; neglectful parents, gangs, etc.
The Michigan Youth Challenge Academy, which has been actually impacting the lives of our young people for a positive change is in jeopardy with the current proposed budget numbers. Our state needs to maintain a proactive solution to the problem of youth correction and the people of this state will show their resolve to support this program. If you could hear the stories of abandonment and neglect from these teens the choice would be clear... to fund this program fully or reallocate funds to expand a program that exceeds the expectations of other correction programs. If we go back to a neglectful criminal correction system our already overburdened facilities will soon be overrun. Please show mercy to the citizens of this state, the youth of this state and the citizen leaders they are becoming.
Sincerely,
Timothy VanderMey
Concerned citizen MYCA Volunteer
Concerned Parent
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