The Program | Letter from the former Lt. Governor | Our Community's Need | Your Gift

Letter from the former Lt. Governor

As former Lieutenant Governor of Michigan I have witnessed and learned so much about the State of Michigan, its opportunities and programs as well as its areas of concern. One of Michigan's current problems is the number of abused and neglected children. Michigan has recently updated its laws and policies to address these problems. Now we need for the courts and other systems to respond with speed, skill and compassion to these vulnerable children. Therefore, I am proud to support the Chance at Childhood Program to further my work on behalf of children and families in Michigan.

My Commission on Children found that the system often failed to provide children with adequate representation. One of the goals of the commission was to ensure effective and competent legal representation and child-sensitive social services for all children to guarantee their safety and permanency. I see the Chance at Childhood Program as an integral way to achieve this. Michigan State University, as the nation's premiere land grant university, has the capability and components to bring Michigan citizens into the next century so that every child can live a better and happier life.

To help start the program, I presented the Chance at Childhood Program with a gift from the Chance at Childhood Foundation of $160,000 in seed money. Additional monies have since been raised through the annual Chance at Childhood Charity Golf Classic and a major fund-raiser Tribute Dinner and reception held by Governor John Engler on my behalf, bringing in significant financial support for the endowment. This program is not only important to me, but is also supported by many other individuals. Everyone's support is needed and crucial. Please join myself and others, to help these children, and give them a chance at childhood.

Thank you,
Honorable Connie Binsfeld