Voices for Action Region 6

Half in Ten Releases New Poverty Reduction Toolkit

2011-11-14T08:33:00.000-08:00

Did you miss Half in Ten's webinar last week? Here's the scoop:

On the webinar, a distinguished panel of speakers, including Co-Chair of the Congressional Out of Poverty Caucus Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA-9) discussed Half in Ten’s new report and accompanying advocacy tools to cut poverty in half over the next 10 years.

The report, “Restoring Shared Prosperity: Strategies to Cut Poverty and Expand Economic Growth,” is Half in Ten’s first inaugural report that will track progress toward our goal on a variety of indicators to help advance policies that create good jobs, strengthen families, and promote economic security.

This report will serve as a guide for our efforts to cut poverty and will help us hold elected officials accountable. But building the movement of advocates fighting poverty nationwide and creating the political will to end poverty is what will help us reach this achievable goal.

To that end, Half in Ten has developed resources and action steps advocates can take to educate their networks about the challenges facing families struggling with poverty and economic hardship and to engage their elected officials in the fight against poverty. Consult the resources below and take action today!

Resources:

If you missed the webinar, you can download the complete recording and slides here. Contact info@halfinten.org with any questions.
Check out Half in Ten’s new action toolkit to learn how to use the data in the report in action alerts, letters to the editor, social media posts, op-eds, and in other advocacy mediums.
Curious about the “Restoring Shared Prosperity” report? Read the top 10 findings from the report or read the full report here.
Want to see how your state fares on indicators like poverty, hunger, unemployment, and more? Explore our new interactive website and download a fact sheet with your state’s data here.

Action steps:

ask your members of Congress to continue jobless benefits for another year

We need your help! Join the movement to cut poverty in half in 10 years. Sign a pledge affirming the Half in Ten goal as an individual, organization, or elected official today.

Michigan League for Human Services publishes Food Assistance Facts

2011-11-14T06:24:00.000-08:00

Did You Know?

Food assistance recipients generally have to be working or participating in employment or training activities to receive assistance for more than three months.
Almost 80% of food assistance dollars are re-deemed within two weeks and 97% within a month.
Food assistance helps the economy grow. For every $1 spent in food assistance, $1.79 is generated in economic growth.
Food assistance generates spending in the retail, agricultural and food production industries in Michigan.

Download MLHS' full fact sheet.

Capacity Building Grants for Microenterprise Development Organizations - Due Nov. 29th

2011-11-03T06:21:00.000-07:00

From the Microenterprise Network of Michigan

Friedman Associates is offering capacity building grants, thanks to the SBA PRIME Program. Capacity building is often defined as "actions that improve nonprofit effectiveness," and nonprofits that help low- income individuals start and expand small businesses can apply for assistance to increase capacity and impact.

Note: these grants do not include a monetary award but instead offer pro bono consulting worth $15,000. Selected organizations must provide an in-kind match of staff time devoted to the project plus up to $1,000 to defray the cost of travel expenses for the consultant's site visit.

There are three specific RFP areas:

1. Consortium for Leaders in Women's Microenterprise Development

Women's Initiative is one of the largest organizations in the country helping low-income women build successful businesses. Four organizations that serve primarily low-income women entrepreneurs are eligible to receive capacity building assistance. This includes:
strategic planning; fund development training; board development training; volunteer program management; messaging and external communications strategies; and program assessment and design, among other services.

2. Academy for Green Microenterprise Development

ACE is an award-winning CDFI and microlender that has developed a statewide platform for green small business lending. Seeking to develop a green microenterprise development training or lending program? On a competitive basis, two Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) that serve low-income individuals will be selected to learn how to teach the "the
triple bottom line" to their clients. ACE will work with you to develop a strategic plan for your green program. We will also connect you to resources and program materials to help you create your initiative.

3. MicroBuilders Capacity Building Program

Little Dixie CAA is an award winning organization providing a broad range of economic and community development programs. Four organizations that serve primarily low-income entrepreneurs are eligible to receive capacity building assistance. This includes:
strategic planning; fund development training; board development training; volunteer program management; messaging and external communications strategies; and program assessment and design, among other services.

For questions, or to receive RFP's and application information contact Jason Friedman, Friedman Associates, at 319-341-3556 or jasonj@friedmanassociates.net. More information available at: http://friedmanassociates.net/SBAPRIME.aspx

Reminder! November 2 Poverty & Education Lecture by Researcher Richard Rothstein

2011-10-25T07:37:00.001-07:00

Join us Next Wednesday! November 2, 2011 6:30 pm

for a free evening lecture on Poverty & Education with

Richard Rothstein
Research Associate, Economic Policy Institute

Dear Voices4Action,

How can we break down barriers to success for Kalamazoo County's 15,000 children in poverty?

The Poverty Reduction Initiative is pleased to invite you to a free lecture by renowned author and educational researcher Richard Rothstein.

6:30 pm Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Dale Lake Auditorium
KVCC Texas Township Campus
6767 W O Ave, Kalamazoo, Michigan map
free admission, free parking
Seating is limited

Rothstein will give us a glimpse into the complex issues that children and families living in poverty must overcome to achieve greater success in school and other learning environments. We hope you will join us for Rothstein’s lecture and participate in forums, discussions, and follow-up work to make his visit a meaningful change agent for our community.

Share the warmth! Bring a new item of winter wear to donate for PROJECT CONNECT. Hats, gloves, mittens, scarves for all ages.

This visit is supported and sponsored by Kalamazoo Public Schools, Western Michigan University’s Lewis Walker Institute, Kalamazoo Regional Educational Services Agency, The Learning Network of Greater Kalamazoo & ISAAC.

Richard Rothstein is a research associate of the Economic Policy Institute in Washington, D.C., and a senior fellow of the Chief Justice Earl Warren Institute on Law and Social Policy at the University of California (Berkeley) Law School. From 1999 to 2002 he was the national education columnist of The New York Times. He is the author of Grading Education: Getting Accountability Right (Teachers College Press and EPI, 2008) and Class and Schools: Using Social, Economic and Educational Reform to Close the Black-White Achievement Gap (Teachers College Press 2004). He is also the author of The Way We Were? Myths and Realities of America’s Student Achievement (1998). Other recent books include The Charter School Dust-Up: Examining the Evidence on Enrollment and Achievement (co-authored in 2005); and All Else Equal: Are Public and Private Schools Different? (co-authored in 2003). Contact Richard Rothstein at riroth@epi.org.

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Early Learning is Good Business - Oct 18 Summit on Early Childhood Education

2011-10-10T06:31:00.001-07:00

From Calhoun Great Start Collaborative and Parent Coalition

Nicole Hamilton posted in Calhoun Great Start Collaborative and Parent Coalition.

Nicole Hamilton

12:58pm Sep 29

Early Learning is Good Business - Summit on Early Childhood Education

Tuesday, October 18 at 6:00pm

View Post on Facebook ·

You're Invited! November 2 Poverty & Education Lecture by Researcher Richard Rothstein

2011-10-05T06:07:00.001-07:00

Save the date! November 2, 2011 6:30 pm

for a free evening lecture on Poverty & Education with

Richard Rothstein
Research Associate, Economic Policy Institute

Dear Voices4Action,

How can we break down barriers to success for Kalamazoo County's 15,000 children in poverty?

The Poverty Reduction Initiative is pleased to invite you to a free lecture by renowned author and educational researcher Richard Rothstein.

6:30 pm Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Dale Lake Auditorium
KVCC Texas Township Campus
6767 W O Ave, Kalamazoo, Michigan map
free admission, free parking

This visit is supported and sponsored by Kalamazoo Public Schools, Western Michigan University’s Lewis Walker Institute, and other local partners.

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Join the Call - Michigan Advocates Discuss the "Super Committee" on October 12

2011-10-04T12:18:00.001-07:00

Some months ago a number of Michigan leaders connected with Ruth Flower from
the Friends Committee on National Legislation on a call to discuss your work
around the federal budget. Now, the Budget Control Act (more commonly known
as the "deficit deal") has created a "super committee" charged with
producing a bill that specifies ways to reduce the deficit by $1.2 - $1.5
trillion over ten years by November 23rd. Representatives Dave Camp and Fred
Upton were both selected to participate on this "super committee".

To help social service providers, non-profit organizations and religious
leaders engage in this round of advocacy with the Federal budget and the
"super committee", the SAVE for All Campaign is coordinating a conference
call with advocacy leaders in Michigan - especially in Representative Upton
and Camp's districts. The call is scheduled for October 12th at 1:00pm EST.
The SAVE for All Campaign includes almost 1600 organizations and more than
45 Michigan groups that are committed to protecting programs for that
support low-income families, and finding more reasonable ways to spend
government funds and to collect the taxes that support what the nation
actually needs.

The call will last for less than one hour and will focus on the following:

* Update on the current situation at the federal level (the importance and
role of both Camp and Upton in the current budget negotiations, the Budget
Control Act, the Super Committee, a balanced budget amendment, and other
relevant pieces)
* What's at stake for Michigan in these negotiations and decisions?
* What kind of advocacy do you think would influence Rep. Camp or Upton?
Who has their attention?
* What has advocacy activities are already underway in Michigan, and what
capacities do Michigan groups have.
* How can national groups help?
* Q & A

Why should your organization be involved?

As stated above, Representatives Camp and Upton's positions on the "super
committee" makes them of particular importance in the federal budget debate.
Votes for a "deal" on the "super committee" only need to be supported by a
majority. That means a vote by either Upton or Camp to protect low-income
people, invest in jobs, etc. could tip the scales in our direction. That's
why the SAVE for All Campaign has been working with key states to identify
networks of leaders in key states, to get their advice on dealing with their
members of Congress, to hear about their in-state advocacy efforts, and to
see if our national coalitions can strengthen that work in any way. The
goal is to strengthen the resolve of key members of Congress to advocate for
and protect programs for low-income people and families.

Representatives Camp and Upton, like most of Congress, are very concerned
about the federal debt and how to create savings in our budget. It is
important that they hear from folks in Michigan that cutting major child
care, education, health care programs and other programs that serve the most
vulnerable is not an answer to the nation's budget problems. Representative
Upton is in a particularly interesting position to cross the aisle and do
that.

We in the SAVE for All Campaign believe that deficit spending can be brought
under control, with a combination of judicious spending cuts that protect
low-income programs, investments in job creation, and a fair revenue plan
that closes tax loopholes that currently favor wealthy individuals and
corporations. To get to that result, we need commitments from key members
of the "super committee" to protect low income families and individuals.
Let's see what we can make happen!

Register

Please register here for the call on October 12th at 1:00pm EST.
<https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dHVNdHhVTUVTenpfakpYNm
RBb0FlTlE6MQ> We'll send a confirmation and call-in number to all
registrants. It is important that members of your organization in Michigan
be represented on this call. We hope you will be able to join us.

If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to contact Angie
Evans at Aevans@chn.org or 202-223-2532, ext 112. Thank you very much, and
we look forward to talking with you on October 12th at 1:00pm EST.

Ancora Imparo "Still I Learn" - Free Legal Aid Training for Lay Service Providers November 10

2011-09-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

Free Legal Training for Social Service Workers, Community Advocates, and Medical Service Providers with Legal Aid of Western Michigan

THURSDAY NOVEMBER 10, 2011
8:00 AM - NOON
M-TEC AT KVCC

Please join LEGAL AID OF WESTERN MICHIGAN for its annual free legal training for social service workers, community advocates, and medical service providers who want to learn more about the legal issues affecting their clients, customers, and patients. Download the registration form.

We will also be hosting a food drive for Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes. Please consider bringing a donation with you to the training.

Workshop topics include:
•Welfare Reform 2011
•Elder Law
•Employment Law
•Housing
•Consumer
•Family
•Advanced Track: Subsidized Housing

Please submit your registration to our office via email (LAWM.TRAINING@gmail.com) by NOVEMBER 2, 2011. For additional information, please contact Mark Zolnoski at 1-800-819-0773, Ext. 228.

If you have registered and do not receive a confirmation email or materials by November 4, 2011, please contact Mark Zolnoski.

Register today! Voices for Action Region 6 - Oct 21 Roundtable on Workforce Development,Job Training & Education

2011-09-26T11:21:00.001-07:00

Invitation for the Region 6 Roundtable - Workforce Develoment, Job Training & Education

On October 21 from 1:00pm-3:00pm the Region 6 Voices for Action network will be hosting a discussion roundtable on workforce development, education and job training.

You are invited to attend, share your insights, thoughts and any local programs or initiatives which may be of value to others in the Region. Feel free to forward this invitation to your colleagues!

Preliminary Agenda

Introductions
Presentation
Discussion
Voices for Action (update)
State Voices for Action update
Adjourn

The meeting will be held at:

The Lewis Walker Institute for Racial and Ethnic Studies
1140 Welborn Hall, WMU
1903 W Michigan Ave
Kalamazoo, MI 49008 Map

Jeff Brown
Executive Director
Poverty Reduction Initiative

1140 Welborn Hall WMU
1903 W. Michigan Ave.
Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5236
269-615-1027
director@haltpoverty.org
www.haltpoverty.org

Open Doors To Host 2nd Annual Bountiful Breakfast

2011-09-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

Kalamazoo, MI September 8, 2011 - Open Doors will host its 2nd Annual Bountiful Breakfast on Saturday, October 1st.

The event, to be held in South Westnedge Park from 9am-noon, will feature a breakfast of local cuisine and tour of Open Doors’ residences. Restaurants providing the breakfast include: Bagel Beanery, Biggby’s, Chocolatea, Cosmo’s Cucina, Full City Cafe, Millennium Restaurant Group, Mr. Thom Cooks, Oakwood Bistro, The Ample Pantry and Victorian Bakery. Additionally, D&W Marketplace, Meijer and Gordon Water are also donating items.

“The Bountiful Breakfast was such a huge success last year, we decided to make it an annual event,” states Rick Stravers, Executive Director of Open Doors. “The food is delicious and people are able to tour our residences and learn more about what we do in the community.”

Open Doors has been partnering with homeless women and men and low-wage workers since 1970 to empower them to support themselves and secure housing. At the Open Door and the Next Door, homeless women and men seek and find employment, save for future housing and address personal obstacles to stability. The Residence Community for Working People provides low-wage workers with housing at affordable rates and personal support for maintaining health and stability.

The tour will include four Open Doors’ residences around South Westnedge Park, formerly known as Pioneer Park, located at the intersection of South Westnedge Avenue and Park Place. Also on the tour this year is Open Doors’ new office at 810 S. Westnedge Avenue.

“The business and restaurant community has been especially supportive of Open Doors and the Bountiful Breakfast. We are grateful for their commitment to helping men and women secure the housing they need,” states Stravers.

Sponsoring businesses include Approved Fire Protection Co., Boot Haan Insurance, Clifford Mulder of Raymond James, Gergely Law Offices, P.C., Parrish Consulting, Rathco Safety & Supply Co. Redmond, Streed and Yokom, Rose Pest Solutions, Sherriff-Goslin Roofing Co., and Yeo & Yeo. P.C.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $5 for children under 10 and are available online at www.OpenDoorsKalamazoo.org or by calling the Open Doors offices at 343-6064. A limited number of tickets will also be available at the event.

For further information, please contact Sarah Bricknell, Development Director, at 269.343.6064 or at sbricknell@opendoorskalamazoo.org.

Welfare bills harmful - from Michigan League for Human Services

2011-08-25T06:32:00.000-07:00

League statement on the passage of bills to enact a 48-month lifetime, retroactive limit on cash assistance.

“The passage of House Bills 4409 and 4410 will negatively affect children across the state. As Michigan recovers from a deep, deep recession and jobs remain in short supply, this is the wrong time to implement this policy.... "

See full statement.

Speak up! Although the bills are finalized and Gov. Snyder is expected to sign them, it's important to let lawmakers and the governor know that this legislation to be the wrong priority for Michigan, especially in this era of high unemployment.

Click here to contact Gov. Snyder.

Click here to contact your state representative.

Click here to contact your state senator.

Summer Car Wash For the Homeless - Date Change to 8-27

2011-08-08T05:56:00.000-07:00

When: August 27, 2011 10:00am-3:00pm

Where: At the Seven Eleven on 5034 W Kl Ave and Drake Rd Kalamazoo, MI 49009 Donations will go to support the work of The Homeless Relief Campaign Initiative

Volunteers needed from 9am-4pm

For more information contact LaShana Jones at (269) 779-5572 Or email hrci.inc@gmail.com

Homeless Relief Campaign Initiative | 5805 Oakland Drive | Portage, MI 49024

Michigan Welfare Rights Organization News

2011-08-03T10:09:00.000-07:00

Republished from the Michigan Welfare Rights Organization

National Poverty Tour Comes to Detroit

Posted: 02 Aug 2011 04:51 PM PDT

On Monday, August 8th, 2011, something very critical is happening in Detroit.

The 15-city POVERTY TOUR: A CALL TO CONSCIENCE is making a stop at City Hall.
PBS talk show host Tavis Smiley and Princeton Professor Cornell West have coordinated this national effort to shine a light on the plight of the American poor.

MI Welfare Rights has been invited to attend and, we in turn, invite you to come and share your thoughts about the rising poverty that we all see happening in Detroit. With the threat of 12,600 welfare families being cut off of benefits effective October, 2011, we are in the front seat as we see our meager standard of living being driven down.

Read Poverty Tour statistics on U.S. poverty.

Meet us at the Detroit Coleman A. Young Municipal Center (aka City County Bldg) in the Auditorium on Monday, August 8th at noon sharp until 2pm. This Tour has made appearances all over the country as they document everywhere else what is happening here.

See you there!

Video: "Tavis tells the Truth about Poverty in America," CBS commentary can be found on Poverty Tour website.

Why We March: Announcing the Workers March On Washington

Posted: 01 Aug 2011 03:00 PM PDT

Beginning today, August 1, 2011, we will begin the first of many posts about preparation for the national Workers March On Washington, June 30, 2012. As a proud member of the Assembly to End Poverty, MWRO is actively organizing thousands of workers and low-income people to speak out and demand an end to poverty!

For the next several months, we will keep you posted with regular reports, analyses and commentary on why we must march. While we gather momentum toward this great march, we know that the heart of this work lies in the stories, testimonials and experiences of poverty from every person in the U.S. that we meet along the way.

We know that the foundation on which society rests has changed forever. Science has advanced technology very fast, making workers more productive than ever before. Fewer human beings are needed to produce. In Michigan, we live in a State that's been hit very hard by this new world order. Yet, political operatives have suggested that mothers on welfare with children be
separated from their benefits and forced into the work market. The first 12,600 public assistance families will be eliminated effective Oct. 1st, 2011.

In the worst job market, in the worst housing market, with family violence spiraling out of control, the answer is to push women and children into deeper poverty? The State will save $64 million by eliminating payments to this group. What is the worth of a human being?

The Assembly To End Poverty is calling for a Workers March On Washington, June 30, 2012. We march on D.C. because we want to eliminate poverty, and not the poor. We can and we will do this!

Get involved, contact: EndPoverty2012@gmail.com. You have 335 days left.

Online Map Hopes to Ease Michigan Summer Hunger Challenges for Youths

2011-07-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

republished from the State of Michigan Department of Education website

LANSING – Summer in Michigan is lots of fun. However, for thousands of children, summer may mean going without the healthy breakfast and lunch normally offered at their local school.

There are free meals available to children across Michigan through the Summer Food Service Program. Yet, despite serving more than 144 million free and affordable lunches during the 2010 school year, only 2.6 million meals were served through this program last summer.

In an effort to provide these free meals to more children, the Michigan Department of Education has created a SFSP Site Locator Map. This online map allows parents, youth, and food assistance organizations to find the nearest meal sites across the state.

"The free Summer Food Service meal sites are in most communities, we just need families to be aware and able to find them,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan. “This online tool is designed to provide greater information and access to nutritional meals for kids during the summer.”

The map is simple to use – just go to the Map webpage, click on the site nearest you and a pop up window with hours of operation and meals served appears. The map is updated weekly throughout the summer as additional sites begin operation. The public is encouraged to check the website throughout the summer for Summer Food sites nearest them.

The Summer Food Service Program was established to ensure that children continue to receive nutritious meals when school is not in session. Free meals, that meet federal nutrition guidelines, are provided to all children 18 years and younger at approved SFSP sites in areas with significant concentrations of low income children. SFSP operators include public and private nonprofit schools, residential camps, colleges or universities, government agencies, and other private non-profit organizations.

The SFSP Site Locator Map can be found at www.mcgi.state.mi.us/schoolnutrition or at the Summer Food Service Program website at www.michigan.gov/sfsp

The Summer Food Service Program, administered by MDE through funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is available to children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.

MI Farm to School Grant Program Grantees

2011-07-27T05:46:00.001-07:00

Farm to school friends and partners,

With funding from the WK Kellogg Foundation, the C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems at Michigan State University will award up to $2,000 for schools/districts around the state to plan for or implement farm to school programs. We are excited to announce that EIGHT school/district applicants have been selected to participate in the first grant year!

The grantees for the new Michigan Farm to School Grant Program 2011 - 2012 grant year are:

School/District County Type of Grant
Bear Lake School District Manistee Implementation
Clare Public Schools Clare Planning
Gladwin Community School Gladwin Implementation
Kaleva Norman Dickson School District Manistee Implementation
Montrose Community Schools Genesee Implementation
Reed City Area Public Schools Osceola Planning
South Haven Public Schools Van Buren Planning
Traverse City College Preparatory Academy Grand Traverse Planning

Each grantee is unique, with exciting and innovative ideas for planning for or implementing farm to school programs. Since a goal of this grant program is to help vulnerable children find more healthy and local food choices in school meals programs, each school/district selected to participate has at least 50% free and reduced-price meal enrollment (as of application date).

This grant program is a direct way to help food service directors across the state overcome some of the many challenges they face when working to initiate and expand farm to school programs. Not only will grantees be awarded up to $2,000 dollars in funding, they will also be provided with technical assistance and training opportunities to help develop, support and enhance of their farm to school activities and programs.

From the: CS Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems
Michigan State University
via Gordie Moeller

Grand Rapids Rally TOMORROW from Michgan League for Human Services

2011-07-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

Dear friends and MILHS members,

Please join a Tuesday July 19 rally in Grand Rapids that will call for protection of seniors, children, people with disabilities and middle-class families in the current national debate on the federal debt ceiling.

The rally, by Michigan Citizen Action, Michigan Consumers for Healthcare Advancement and other organizations, will be at the Ottawa side of the Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, 110 Michigan St. NW, Grand Rapids from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. with a 4:30 p.m. press conference.

The goal is let U.S. Rep. Justin Amash know that we need a reasonable plan for deficit reduction that reflects our values, protects our families and neighbors and that doesn't shift more burden onto the states and middle-class families.

On a related issue, the League Monday sent a letter to the Michigan congressional delegation urging the rejection of a Balanced Budget Amendment that could hinder an economic recovery.

The League has also released a new paper on how to create an ideal P-20 data tracking system. The report, The Key Ingredient: Good Data is Crucial to Building Michigan's Workforce System, examines best practices for including information on adult learners.

Additionally, the League has posted a new chart that estimates how many Family Independence Program cases will be closed by county under House Bills 4409 and 4410, which would enact stricter 48-month time limits on families receiving cash assistance. The bills will hurt vulnerable children and their families in Michigan.
For more information on this public policy discussion, please see an outstanding editorial in the Detroit Free Press .

The Right Start in Michigan and Its Counties - 2011

2011-07-14T06:56:00.001-07:00

Michigan Mothers and Their Babies: Overview and Trends 2000-2009

The Right Start in Michigan is the Kids Count annual review of mothers' and babies' well-being. Over the decade between 2000 and 2009, Michigan improved on three of the five indicators where a trend could be calculated.

The biggest improvement was the 13 percent decline in teen mothers who were having another baby - dropping from 21 percent to 18 percent of teen births.
Teen births and preterm births also dropped over the decade.
The most dramatic worsening was the 20 percent increase in births to unmarried women.
The percentage of low-birthweight babies weighing less than 5.5 pounds rose slightly.

In 2009 more Michigan babies were born to mothers in economically insecure circumstances than in 2000. Roughly half of Michigan infants were born to low-income mothers eligible for Medicaid, and births to unmarried mothers represented roughly 40 percent of all births in 2009. Women unmarried at the birth of their child are likely to remain single parents with the heightened risk of poverty.

The full Right Start in Michigan and its Counties - 2011 report is available on the Michigan League for Human Services website.

Go to the Voices for Michigan's Children site...

Region 3 Success Story: Engaging Local Farmers Markets for Bridge Card Accessibility

2011-06-29T06:33:00.001-07:00

Creating a Legacy of Food Security & Supporting the Local Economy

Each year around 200 million dollars enter Kent County through the federal Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), known as the Food Assistance Program (FAP) in Michigan. In 2009 less than 1/10 of 1% of that money went to local agricultural producers. Gordie Moeller, a retired social worker, is on a mission to change that by increasing Bridge Card Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) participation at farmers markets across his region.

For the past year Moeller has been working to bring access to healthy foods to SNAP/FAP recipients through local farmers’ markets and farm stands.

“Without the ability to use their Bridge Card at farmers’ markets, about 25% of area families are denied the opportunity to purchase healthy locally grown farm fresh fruits and vegetables,” says Moeller.

Moeller and his wife created the Food Security Fund at the Grand Rapids Foundation for programs and organizations that prevent and alleviate hunger and address critical nutrition issues.

Moeller located markets, visited farmers and explained his win-win strategy: “People eat healthier food, get fresh air and gain nutritional knowledge,” says Moeller. “In turn, the increased sales help local farmers, which benefits other local businesses. In comparison, 70% of money spent at supermarket chains leaves town.”

Moeller’s work is beginning to pay off. In 2010 only six farmers and markets accepted Bridge Cards in the region. In 2011, the number is up 750% to 46. Moeller recently received a letter of recognition from the State of Michigan Department of Human Services Director Maura Corrigan, excerpted here:

Two organizations were instrumental in supporting Moeller’s outreach: the United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service and the Michigan Farmers Market Association.

The USDA offers free EBT equipment for farmers and markets with electricity and phone service.

The MIFMA works with farmers’ markets and legislators on relevant issues. They publish a Bridge Card manual that can help farmers get started.
Of note to farmers and markets:

Large markets can accept Bridge Cards for individual farmers.
Farmers and markets who already accept credit and debit can easily add Bridge Card EBT.

This summer the Double Up Food Bucks program offers a bonus incentive for Bridge Card holders when they buy from participating community farmers markets— they receive extra SNAP credit to buy double the produce for the regular price.

Farmers markets that accept Bridge Cards:
www.mifma.org/find-a-farmers-market/

Double Up Food Bucks:
www.doubleupfoodbucks.org

Gordie Moeller can be reached at 616.293.4727 or gordiemoeller@comcast.net.

Fueling Young Bodies to Fulfill Growing Needs

2011-06-29T06:33:00.000-07:00

Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes Aims to Feed 10,000+ Hungry Kids this Summer
Kimberly Schoetzow, Communications Coordinator, Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes

Requests for emergency food assistance skyrocket during the summer months. To meet this year’s demand, Loaves & Fishes is kicking off their Food is Fuel Kids Campaign, with a target goal of $50,000 and 50,000 pounds of food by the end of August.

“No one can be successful or fully participate in the world around them without regular access to food,” says Anne Wend Lipsey, Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes’ executive director. “It’s that simple.”

It’s even more important for growing children to have a nourishing diet.Without the proper ‘fuel’ in a child’s diet, they aren’t the best students, athletes, or community members.

Food is the link to ensure kids have the chance to fulfill their ultimate potential. A diet lacking in nutrients can cause irrevocable damage to a child’s health, and their future.

In summertime children don’t have the same access to the free and reduced meals available during the school year.

Last summer 10,910 of the 24,805 food orders distributed by Loaves & Fishers went to children.

“Everyone can make a difference this summer by contributing and connecting hungry kids to food resources,” says Lipsey.

How to help:

Join local businesses, organizations, and faith groups to collect food and raise funds for hungry local kids.
Let your clients and community members know about the program.
Be a part of the Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes’ Shop-n-Drop Food Drive on July 16 at the Portage D&W Fresh Market.

Visit www.kzoolf.org for food drop-off locations and to donate.

If you’d like to start your own collection or participate in the Shop-n-Drop Food Drive, contact Kimberly Schoetzow, Communications Coordinator, at 269.488.2617 x218 or kimberly@kzoolf.org.

Bundling Benefits to Improve Families’ Financial State

2011-06-29T06:32:00.002-07:00

Goodwill of SWMI’s Family Opportunity Center Starts Strong

Moving from poverty into prosperity is not easy. It requires self-awareness, willingness to learn, a strong support system, behavioral changes, and a lot of hard work. For area residents ready to change their lives, staff members of the new Family Opportunity Center at Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Michigan are ready to provide the support.

The Family Opportunity Center (FOC) is based on the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Center for Working Families® (CWF) framework for neighborhood service delivery. This model has shown that bundling and sequencing services and ongoing support has much more success that providing a person or family a singular service.

A Human Service Campus Approach

“We’re bundling services together for more impact,” says Wilma Wilder, Goodwill’s FOC Coordinator and Employment Coach. “We offer workforce development, financial coaching, and assistance accessing benefits and income supports. All of this happens at Goodwill’s Human Service Campus which also houses several other organizations that can offer services to the participants as well.”

Wilder and colleague Sharilyn Parsons, the FOC’s Financial Coach—on contract from Kalamazoo Neighborhood Housing Services (KNHS)—studied other communities’ programs for best practices and did site visits to two other programs in Detroit.

Employment coach Wilma Wilder works with an
FOC client to identify her transferable skills.

“We are passionate about the work and want to make sure we bring in the best possible format for delivering these services to the residents of Kalamazoo,” says Wilder.

Once enrolled, clients are required to take a four-week financial literacy course with Parsons, to help them with budgeting, improving their credit score, and financial planning.

Wilder teaches an optional six-week Career Discovery / Career Opportunities course and provides one-on-one employment coaching. A regular job club meeting will help keep clients motivated to improve their careers.

While they have distinct roles, Wilder and Parsons are creating the program with a holistic approach that will take into account each individual’s needs, goals, and life vision.

Family Opportunity Center staff will track participants’ progress through the “Efforts to Outcomes” software that is being used nationally by all of the Family Opportunity and Center for Working Family programs.

Past Present and Future

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) asked Goodwill to take on the project in late 2010. The W. K. Kellogg Foundation is funding the Kalamazoo FOC along with sister projects in Battle Creek and Grand Rapids.

The Family Opportunity Center held its first orientation session in early June. Referrals into the program have come from a variety of sources including Goodwill’s other programs such as the GED / ABE program, HIRE; and the Kalamazoo Tax Counseling Initiative. Other organizations have also referred participants including KNHS; the Hispanic American Council; MIWorks!; and Advocacy Services for Kids.

Wilder does outreach at various local career-related events. Local service providers are welcome to refer individuals they believe are suited for the program.

“This is intensive work,” says Wilder. “We’re looking for people who really want to make a change and are willing to commit to a partnership with the FOC coaches.”

A grand opening will occur in late summer or early fall, with a program expansion.

Download an informational flyer here.

Find Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Michigan on the web:

Double Up Food Bucks Offers Healthy Food Incentives

2011-06-29T06:32:00.001-07:00

"The Fair Food Network’s Double Up Food Bucks program provides families receiving food assistance benefits -- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) -- with the means to purchase more Michigan-grown fresh fruits and vegetables at farmers’ markets. The program aims to increase the consumption of healthy food in low-income communities while also creating new sales opportunities for Michigan growers."

Learn how it works for Bridge Card holders.

Here are currently participating markets:

Southwest Michigan

100-Mile Market
507 Harrison Street Kalamazoo
Wednesdays 3pm – 7pm

Battle Creek Farmers Market
Festival Market Square at the corner of Jackson and McCamly, Battle Creek, MI
Wednesdays and Saturdays 9am – 1pm

Bellevue Farmers Market
Washington Park at the corner of West Mill and Main, Bellevue, MI
Thursdays 4 – 7pm

City of Springfield Farmers’ Market
503 Military Avenue, Springfield, MI
Wednesdays 12 – 5pm; Saturdays 8am – 1pm

Douglass Farmers’ Market
1000 W. Paterson St., Kalamazoo, MI
Fourth Tuesdays (June 28, July 26, and August 23), 3-7pm

Kalamazoo Farmers’ Market
1204 Bank Street, Kalamazoo, MI
Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays 7am – 1pm
(Bridge Cards accepted Saturdays ONLY)

VA Medical Center Farmers Market
Veteran’s Administration Hospital
5500 Armstrong Road, Battle Creek, MI
Mondays 11am – 1pm (ends Sept 26)

Find all participating markets here.

Building Bridges to Prosperity

2011-06-29T06:32:00.000-07:00

Participants at the April 29 Roundtable discuss MBAI's MiBridges enhancements.

Michigan Benefits Access Initiative Brings Online Efficiency to MiBridges in 2012

Do you help your clients apply for and access state benefit programs? Are they overwhelmed, tired of trying to be in the right place at the right time with the right paperwork to find the window of opportunity to obtain income support?

Imagine how much easier it would be for all of us if clients could complete one application, one time, and have their eligibility verified for all of the state administered programs: Medicaid; Cash Assistance, Child Development and Care; State Emergency Relief; as well as Food and Energy Assistance.

What if they had access anytime to a single source online portal where they could check their enrollment status, upload documents, exchange electronic correspondence with case workers, and have their continued eligibility determined online—in English, Spanish or Arabic.

This is what MiBridges www.michigan.gov/mibridges will bring to your clients in 2012, thanks to the work of the Michigan Benefits Access Initiative (MBAI) task force, a forty member group that has been working since 2008 to bring close to $1 billion unclaimed benefits back into circulation.

MiBridges Creates One Platform

“Research shows more than 50% of the reason for program failure or dropping out is that people just didn’t know what they were supposed to do,” says Linda Schmidt, Poverty Policy Director at the Michigan Department of Human Services.

“As this system is built out, you will be able to help [clients] figure out exactly what’s going on, report changes, and do whatever they need to do to recertify and maintain their eligibility for the programs that they already have—and to apply directly for all of the DHS programs online.”

The electronic upgrades to the MiBridges system are scheduled for completion from December 2011 through March 2012. The work is being done by Deloitte with funding from the Michigan Association of United Ways.

Getting to the Other Side

“The vision is to get us all on the same page with the same piece of technology...to get the income supports into families so that they can complete their training, get that better job, and really make progress against poverty,” explains Nancy Lindman, Director of Public Policy & Partnerships at Michigan Association of United Ways.

“This doesn’t replace the social work,” emphasizes Lindman. “But we need to move people into financial stability.”

Getting Ready for the Change

Currently MBAI is working to bring together two groups of people: those who help people with the paper booklet applications; and those who have experience with online applications. The goal is that when the system rolls out within a year, everyone who works on benefits access will be ready.

MBAI is forming strong partnerships with a growing number of nonprofit networks, such as Voices for Action, to integrate into community initiatives.

The MBAI three-phase outreach plan will help local community-based organizations prepare for the new technology.

Recruit non-profit networks that work with clients on a daily basis as benefits access sites.
Train staff and volunteers so they feel comfortable with the MiBridges system and assisting people with benefits.
Bring in additional funding to clear away barriers for these networks.

The Intended Benefits

Nancy Lindman presents MBAI's
MIBridges enhancements
in Grand Rapids.

Once the system is up and running DHS expects to see increased benefits enrollment, reduced workload, less recertification errors, and fewer re-applications.

With the MiBridges technology update creating more stable income supports, the “real” work can succeed—helping those who are truly in need cross over from poverty to prosperity.

For information about MBAI or MiBridges benefits access training, contact Nancy Lindman, Michigan Association of United Ways (shown at right) nlindman@uwmich.org or 517.371.4360.♦

Download a 2011 MBAI fact sheet.
Download the 2009 MBAI Executive Summary Report.
Download the April 2011 MBAI presentation.

Michigan Benefits Access Initiative (MBAI) Partners

Community Economic Development Association
Department of Corrections - Michigan Prisoner Reentry Initiative
Department of Human Services - Voices for Action
Elder Law of Michigan
Food Bank Council of Michigan
Michigan 2-1-1
Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness
Michigan Community Action Agency Association
Michigan Community College Association
Michigan Head Start Association
Michigan Primary Care Association
United Way for Southeastern Michigan

Mothers of Hope Ultimate Family Reunion - Aug 6, 2011 Kalamazoo Spring Valley Park

2011-06-27T13:03:00.000-07:00

Mothers of Hope Ultimate Family Reunion August 6, 2011

New America Foundation News - The Assets Report 2011

2011-06-27T05:28:00.000-07:00

Colleagues,

Every year the Asset Building Program conducts an analysis of the federal budget to provide a more complete understanding of how the federal government encourages the accumulation of assets for families up and down the economic ladder. We seek to shine a light on what policy levers are deployed, who benefits from these programs and policy efforts, and how recent legislation potentially alters the landscape.

In that pursuit, we present The Assets Report 2011, an assessment of federal policies and programs to promote asset building opportunities. Our analysis finds:

In Fiscal Year 2012, the President's budget proposes a total of $519 billion in resources to promote asset-building opportunities. This includes $46 billion in direct spending and $473 billion in subsidies delivered through the tax code.
The federal government will allocate $209 billion in resources to subsidize homeownership and $147 billion for retirement security. $57 billion will be devoted to post-secondary education, $357 million for entrepreneurship, and $106 billion to savings and investment activities.
The total tax subsidies for asset building in Fiscal Year 2012 are worth $473 billion, which overwhelmingly accrue to middle- and upper-income Americans.
Tax refunds, which are returned to many households after they file their taxes, represent a significant asset for many families. The combined value of the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit is $65 billion, $46 billion of which are delivered as tax refunds.

By any account, these are substantial sums; however, the efficacy of these policies is less contingent on the scope of the resources being allocated as the scope of households who benefit from those resources. Those families with lower incomes and fewer resources receive a small fraction of the total resources in play, while those with higher earnings receive the lion's share.

The release of this year's report coincides with the broader consideration of federal spending priorities in the context of deficit reduction. As Congress and the Administration discuss options for long-term fiscal reform, they should recognize that targeted policies which enable a greater degree of savings by those at the bottom of the economic ladder are investments that pay off down the line. Not only can these types of policies increase financial security of families still struggling to rebuild their balance sheets two years after the official end of the Great Recession but they can help families achieve economic mobility and invest in their future. We invite you to consult another of our publications, The Assets Agenda, for a fuller description of ideas on how to implement a more inclusive set of savings and asset-building policies to benefit all Americans, but especially those with lower-incomes and fewer resources.

Sincerely,

Reid Cramer

Director, Asset Building Program

New America Foundation

www.NewAmerica.net

Transportation Equity Network News - Help Us Protect Passenger Rail

2011-06-27T05:20:00.000-07:00

Help Us Protect Passenger Rail

This week, Congressman John Mica, Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, introduced a draft bill, the Competition for Intercity Passenger Rail in America Act of 2011. This bill privatizes Amtrak service in the Northeast Corridor, weakens Amtrak service in the rest of the country, and promotes privatization of the new high-speed and intercity rail program throughout the United States.

Let your Member of Congress know that privatizing the rail programs in this country is unacceptable and that full funding of Amtrak and the high-speed and intercity rail program in FY 2012 will lead to the creation of thousands of new jobs in this country.
Help us support passenger rail and job growth. Write your Member of Congress today.

A Failed Concept

We don't need to speculate about the possible effects of passenger rail privatization. Britain privatized its rail service in the early 1990's and the experiment has largely been a failure, leading to higher fares, increased costs, and little incentive to modernize infrastructure.
The British government now spends more subsidizing a series of commerically unsuccessful rail operators than it did simply running the publicly-owned British Railways.
Privatization of passenger rail in this country is unacceptable and we need to make that clear to Congress.
Send a message today. Ask your Member of Congress to stand with Amtrak against privatization.

Common-Sense Rules

Unfortunately, privatization is a growing trend in cash-starved municipalities nationwide. With this in mind, Senator Dick Durbin has introduced a bill to help bring transparency and oversight to the sale of public transit systems and other infrastructure.
The bill (Protecting Taxpayers in Transportation Asset Transfers Act S1230) would set important new precedents regarding the disclosure of anticipated effects on wages, employment and work rules.
We at TEN applaud Senator Durbin's focus on worker protection and transparency and have signed a letter of support for this important legislation.

Capitol Hill Updates

We at TEN are pleased to announce a new resource designed to keep you informed about transportation issues being discussed in Washington.
They're called Capitol Hill Updates and our second issue goes soon.
Click here to sign up for future updates.
Click here to read them on our website.

Call for Papers

The Transportation Research Board is looking for papers relating to the health impacts of transportation policies, procedures, and actions.
Click here for more information.

Employment Opportunity

TEN affiliate United Congregations of Metro-East is looking for a Lead Organizer in the St. Louis area.
Click here for more information.

Follow Us on Twitter

Join Us on Facebook

Transportation Equity Network
4501 Westminster Place, 3rd Floor

St. Louis, MO 63108

FAMILY HEALTH CENTER ANNOUNCES OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR KALAMAZOO COUNTY HEALTH PLAN, PLAN B

2011-06-27T05:11:00.000-07:00

A unique and rare opportunity for low-income uninsured residents to procure health coverage

Kalamazoo, MI - Family Health Center (FHC) is pleased to announce an open enrollment period for the Kalamazoo County Health Plan (KCHP), Plan B.

KCHP is a community sponsored program for low- income uninsured residents of Kalamazoo County who do not qualify for Medicaid, Medicare or have any other type of healthcare coverage. According to the 2009 Census, there are approximately 37,261 uninsured residents living in Kalamazoo County. Currently, approximately 1,500 of people are enrolled in KCHP, Plan B.

To be eligible for Plan B, a candidate must be a resident of Kalamazoo County, uninsured and have a household income under 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (roughly $1,800/mo for a single-person household and $3,725 for a family of four (4)).

It is important to note that KCHP is primary health coverage, not health insurance, and that minimal co-pays are required. However, for many living without insurance and struggling to make ends meet, KCHP has created new access to quality, primary healthcare.

The Plan B Open Enrollment Period will begin immediately and will remain open until filled. It is estimated that between 200 and 250 people will be able to enroll during this enrollment period. Anyone may call 344-6168 to see if they qualify and to make an appointment to register.

The mission of FHC is to provide quality, comprehensive, primary healthcare to all people regardless of ability to pay. FHC is a community-based Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) which provides primary medical care, dental services and behavioral health care/counseling in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Medicaid is welcomed and a sliding fee scale based on income is available for anyone who is uninsured. There are six (6) locations in Kalamazoo County with the main office at 117 W. Paterson St. To make an appointment, please call 269.349.2641. You may also visit the website for additional general information at www.fhckzoo.com.

Michigan League for Human Services Releases Public Spending & Young Adults Report

2011-06-17T05:50:00.000-07:00

From MLHS: The latest Tax Dollars at Work: Public Spending for Selected Health and Social Programs in Michigan (pdf) report is now available. It outlines, by county, the amount spent on major health and social programs as well as the number of recipients.

It's invaluable information to have to understand the economic impact and needs of residents at a local level.

In addition, a new report from the Michigan League for Human Services and Demos finds that young adults in Michigan have lost major economic ground over the last four decades. The paper, Building Michigan's Future Middle Class: Addressing the Economic Challenges Facing Young Adults, (pdf) was released today at a policy forum on young adults.

Please go to www.milhs.org to see the press release and PowerPoint presentations from the four speakers.

St. Joseph County Only Event - Safe Kids Day June 25

2011-06-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

Elder Rights Training in St. Joseph County June 21 1-4 pm

2011-06-10T11:20:00.000-07:00

Register by June 17

Did you know that our seniors are the fastest growing population?

With that growing population also comes growing issues of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. June 21^st has been declared Elder Rights Awareness Day in St. Joseph County. As part of that awareness, I am proud to announce an Elder Rights Training for all interested persons, including the general public. This training will be held on Wednesday, June 21 from 1-4 PM in the lower level of the SJC Courthouse. RSVP’s are necessary.

Agenda includes: Guardianships, Estate Recovery Act, Adult Protective Services, Community Services, Police Intervention, Domestic and Sexual Abuse Services and Public Protection Orders, Independent Living Services, and a panel discussion.

Presenters include the Honorable Judge Thomas Shumaker, Commissioner Rick Shaffer, attorney Mike Mestelle, Probate Registar Eva Sylvester, Ernie Riggs of DHS, Laura Sutter, Coordinator from the Area Agency on Aging, Lynn Coursey, Executive Director from the Commission on Aging, Captain Jason Bingaman of the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Department, and Mary Lynn Falbe, Director of Domestic and Sexual Abuse Services.

Space is limited.Again, RSVP’s are required and should be directed to me [Janice Reed] via phone (269) 467-1223 or email ReedJ4@michigan.gov by June 17^th. Hope to see you there!

Janice I. Reed
Collaboration Coordinator
St. Joseph County Human Services Commission

Road to Prosperity Wants Your Stories

2011-06-09T12:19:00.000-07:00

The Campaign to Cut Poverty in Half in Ten Years

Half in Ten and CHN release the Road to Shared Prosperity story map

The Half in Ten campaign and the Coalition on Human Needs are thrilled to announce the release of the Road to Shared Prosperity, an interactive map displaying a collection of personal stories about programs building the American Dream. At a time when human-needs programs like Medicaid, food stamps/SNAP, and numerous others are facing the threat of extreme budget cuts, it is critical to show how such programs make a difference in the lives of real families, communities, and the economy. Designed to be a rich resource for the public, all stories contained in the map are paired with data on a state’s social and economic situation to show that this is about more than one person’s struggle or one family’s encounter with the safety net, but rather systemic issues that federal programs are successfully addressing.

Visit our resources for advocates page to learn best practices for leveraging the map’s contents for advocacy. We urge you to include stories and data from the Road to Shared Prosperity into your correspondence with members of Congress, in opinion editorials, and in social media campaigns.

Half in Ten and the Coalition on Human Needs are seeking additional stories to add to the map, which will be updated regularly. We welcome short video clips and written stories from service providers, beneficiaries, community leaders, business owners, and others who can speak to the value of federal programs that build prosperity and increase opportunity for all Americans. If you’d like to add your story to the Road to Shared Prosperity, click here.

We hope that this map will prove to be a useful resource in your advocacy around the budget debate. With your help we can pave the road to shared prosperity for all Americans.

View the Road to Shared Prosperity

Submit your story to the Road to Shared Prosperity

Bridges Out of Poverty July 8 SW Michigan Mini-Conference

2011-06-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

Bridges Out of Poverty

Southwest Michigan

Mini Conference

· Learning: Previous graduates of Getting Ahead will discuss how the program has helped them, and made a difference in their lives.

· Sharing: Cass and Monroe County will share how they have implemented Bridges out of Poverty.

· Planning: Opportunities and Methods. Be part of the discussion on how to expand Bridges out of Poverty in Southwest Michigan.

Understanding Poverty. Building Communities. Changing Lives.

Presenters:

· Sharing and planning for the future by Cass and Monroe County

· Graduates from previous Classes

Date	July 8, 2011
Location	Southwestern Michigan College Mathew Conference Center West 58900 Cherry Grove Rd Dowagiac Michigan, 49047
Time	Time: 10:00 am- 3:00 pm
Attire	Casual Business Attire.
Cost	• Conference is Free of cost • Participates may choose to bring their individual lunch or Lunch included- $15 per person (optional) • RSVP by July 1, 2011
Contact Person	Kimberley Brown Phone: 269-445-7062 Email Address: eitc.brown@gmail.com

Kalamazoo County - Funding Opportunity MSHDA Emergency Solutions Grant

2011-06-06T05:58:00.000-07:00

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) in Kalamazoo County has a funding opportunity for the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) that is administered through the local Continuum of Care structure (locally known as the Affordable Housing Partnership).

You will find the Notice of Intent and Timeline documents on the AHP Funding Opportunities webpage: www.kalamazooahp.org/funding-opportunities

Please note deadlines for submission in the timeline; these deadlines are critical for your application being considered for funding.

You are encouraged to contact Michelle Schneider mschneider@lisc.org with questions.

Corp for National and Community Service...Americorp serves the people!

2011-05-26T08:04:00.000-07:00

The National League of Cities recently highlighted the important work of Americorp volunteers in our Cities. As this program continues to be under scrutiny during budget debates it is important for us to understand the significant local impact of the work that is done. Region 6 Voices for Action relies heavily on the Americorp staff at the Kalamazoo PRI to help maintain our network of communication!

Calling All Michigan Leaders for an Important Call on June 2nd!

2011-05-26T05:40:00.000-07:00

The Coalition on Human Needs, in partnership with the Friends Committee on National Legislation, present this important drill-down call for influential Michigan leaders on Thursday, June 2nd at 12:00PM EST. Please read on for more information about this call and please forward this notice to others in your state who should be included:
Dear Michigan Advocacy Leader,

To help social service providers, non-profit organizations and religious leaders engage in advocacy around the Federal budget, the Friends Committee on National Legislation and the Coalition on Human Needs, as part of the SAVE for All Campaign, are coordinating a conference call with advocacy leaders in Michigan on June 2nd (Thursday) at 12:00pm (eastern time). The Friends Committee on National Legislation and the Coalition on Human Needs are led and supported by affiliates, constituents, and volunteers across the country who are committed to protecting programs that support low-income families.

The call will last for less than one hour and will focus on the following:

* Update on the current situation (current budget negotiations for FY 2012, and proposals for dealing with the debt ceiling, including a balanced budget amendment, and various kinds of spending caps)
* What’s at stake for Michigan in these negotiations?
* What’s happening in Michigan?
* What else can we do together? (Sign-on Letter, Calls, In-District Meetings, Editorials, etc.)
* Q & A

It is important that members of your organization in Michigan be represented on this call, and we hope you will be able to join us. If you would like to participate, please RSVP to Ruth Flower at flower@fcnl.org.

In addition to the call on Tuesday, we would like to work with Michigan advocates to set up broad coalition meetings with Senator Stabenow to discuss budget issues. The meetings will likely take place in regional offices or over the phone. We’ll discuss how to organize these meetings on the June 2 call. Before the Senate meetings, we would be happy to host a prep call with all participants. If you are unable to participate in next week’s call, but would be interested in participating in the meetings with Senator Stabenow or other opportunities, please e-mail Ruth Flower at flower@fcnl.org.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ruth Flower at flower@fcnl.org / (202) 903-2524.

Thank you very much, and we look forward to talking with you next week.
---------------------------------------------------------

Why should your organization be involved?

As you know, Michigan is still suffering greatly from the effects of the recession. Michigan’s state budget includes deep funding cuts that affect many of the programs we all work on and rely on, including education, employment, health care, and income supports.

But another shoe is waiting to drop -- the impact of cuts in the federal budget.

The SAVE for All Campaign has been organizing conference calls with networks of leaders in key states, to get their advice on dealing with their Senators, to hear about their in-state advocacy efforts, and to see if our national coalitions can strengthen that work in any way. The goal is to strengthen the resolve of key senators to advocate for and protect programs for low-income people and families.

As a member of the Senate Budget Committee and the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Stabenow is a key player in the budget negotiations. The Finance Committee, in particular, will decide whether there will be cuts in Medicare, Medicaid, and various income security programs, and whether there will be additional revenues on the table. Under the House budget, Families USA estimates that Michigan would lose almost $64 billion in federal funding over the next 10 years, just for health care programs: Medicare, Medicaid, and the new premium tax credits to help people by insurance. Senator Stabenow is generally supportive of these and other programs that help low income families, but is also very concerned about the federal debt.

We in the SAVE for All Campaign believe that deficit spending can be brought under control, with a combination of judicious spending cuts that protect low-income programs and a fair revenue plan that closes tax loopholes favoring wealthy individuals and corporations. But to get to that result, we need a stronger commitment from Senator Stabenow to protect low income families and individuals.

Healthy Babies Healthy Start May 2011 Events

2011-05-09T12:44:00.000-07:00

A FREE WORKSHOP: “WHAT ARE BROWNFIELDS OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR COMMUNITY!”

2011-04-21T07:35:00.000-07:00

The VanBuren County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will be presenting A FREE WORKSHOP: “WHAT ARE BROWNFIELDS OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR COMMUNITY!”

They will be hosting a special presentation to educate the community at large to share with them about BROWNFIELDS, the affect it has on communities, and the resources that are available to help clean contaminated land, farmland, commercial structures, homes and business that may be deemed BROWNFIELD Sites. While educating consumers of what they can do to assure that their potential investments are secured by working with the local BROWNFIELD Divisions of their areas.

The team of BROWNFIELD Experts will be participating in a FREE community forum that will be conducted in Spanish and English to serve the greater communities of Van Buren County. Anyone interested in attending or wanting more information (Attachments) please contact the Brownfield Division.

DATE: APRIL 30, 2011

TIME: 12:00-2:30 PM
WHERE: VAN BUREN ISD TECHNOLOGY CENTER
250 South Street
Lawrence, Michigan

The Van Buren County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is requesting your support buy assisting them in filling their workshop with over 200 individuals.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Edward VanderVries - MAAO III, PPE
Van Buren County
Director of Land Services, Planning & Economic Development
219 E. Paw Paw Street
Paw Paw, MI 49079
VandervriesE@vbco.org
WK - (269) 657-8234 x17
FAX - (269) 657-0579
MBL - (269) 720-1928

stand against racism - friday april 29

2011-04-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

stand against racism

The YWCA of Kalamazoo cordially invites you to join us in taking a stand against racism.

Friday, April 29, 2011

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

353 E. Michigan Ave.
Kalamazoo, MI 49007

The stand against racism is an awareness event in which community members gather to stand together to recognize the need to eliminate racism. Participating
community members will stand together covering a four block radius surrounding the YWCA, and will recite the pledge against racism. We ask you to make your voice heard by joining the stand against racism. The stand against racism will take place at the front of the YWCA with a reception to follow.

By participating in this event, you will help raise awareness that racism still exists in our communities and that it can no longer be tolerated.
Our strength will be in numbers. Please Join Us. Take a Stand.

For more information: Contact Chéree Thomas at 269-345-5595 ext. 314 or
racialjustice@ywcakalamazoo.org

Or visit: www.StandAgainstRacism.org

353 E. Michigan Ave.
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
269-345-5595

www.ywcakalamazoo.org

pledge against racism

As an individual committed to social justice, I stand with YWCA against racism and discrimination of any kind.

I will commit to a lifetime of promoting peace, justice,
freedom, and dignity for all people in my community and in the world.

One Community Campaign

2011-04-12T11:41:00.001-07:00

One Community refers to the American ideal that we are one people, and that our prosperity and quality of life depend on all residents contributing fully to the economic, social and cultural life of our communities and our state. Unfortunately, the rising poverty rate and associated negative trends in many quality of life indicators show that we have been moving further away from this ideal in recent years. One Community is intended to function simultaneously as a poverty indicators monitoring system, an evaluation system to inform local and state anti-poverty policies and practices, and as a communications campaign intended to ensure that the voices of poor people and the need to eliminate poverty remain in the forefront of public consciousness.

The first component of the One Community model is an information system that includes monitoring trends in poverty and poverty-related quality of life indicators

Voices for Action Region 6 Meeting

(eg., food security, access to adequate health care, education, housing), as well as supply and demand for social, educational, medical and employment services. A second component involves evaluation research by social scientists from Western Michigan University who will assess how adequately community resources and services are working (individually and collectively) to reduce poverty. The third component of One Community is a communications (public information) campaign that juxtaposes information about poverty in our respective communities and statewide with the highest ideals that we Americans embrace and espouse.

We expect that One Community will lead to the creation of a network of citizens energized to work collaboratively to eliminate poverty. In each community and throughout the region, the network will include: service providers from both the non-profit and public sectors; faith-based and other community organizations; university-based researchers; and the people, themselves, including those who are poor.

The economic, social and cultural vitality of our communities depend on all people having the basic resources needed to contribute and participate fully in community life. Our communities and our region cannot prosper when so many of our citizens are encumbered by poverty. By highlighting how far we are from providing so many of our children and families with the most basic building blocks for a prosperous future, One Community seeks to enable residents from all backgrounds to envision a brighter future for our communities and our region, and what it will take to get there.