2010: Michigan's Defining Moment

The elections of 2008 proved that Americans were ready for a change in the direction of leadership, and in the coming years we will know the ramifications of this choice. Certainly, the Obama administration's massive government stimulus bill will have large affect on the future of Michigan, as well as the choices he makes towards addressing the auto industry and job market.

However, if one is looking for a full, sweeping change for the state of Michigan - it might be more realistic to look further into the future to 2010. In this pivotal election year, 38 state senators and 70 percent of the Michigan House of Representatives will be gone by January 2011.

This is truly a dramatic shift in leadership for a state in sure need of a face lift. Spearheaded by the Non-profit Center for Michigan, The Michigan's Defining Moment Campaign seeks to develop a common ground vision and agenda for Michigan's transformation to a new era of prosperity. The campaign has already laid groundwork, scheduling 175 community meetings in every corner of the state.

PRI representatives will be attending Saturday's meeting in Kalamazoo at Borgess tomorrow to give their input. It is an opportunity to bring our agenda to the meeting, where will can explain the benefits to Michigan residents of reducing poverty.

It is no secret: poverty is a cost burden for everyone in a community. With Michigan's rising poverty due to economic conditions, more must rely on safety-net systems of survive. This is not sustainable in the long run; we have to create a future where everyone has an opportunity to succeed. The more independent, self-reliant individuals we can deliver in our communities, the less burden we put onto our welfare systems. The benefit there is obvious - less welfare support used means less tax dollars being pumped into people who do not create capital for themselves.

We should use this shift in leadership to bring about opportunities to develop programs which give our residents as many opportunities to be self-sustaining as possible. The more people working, creating, innovating, contributing, the more our economy and community will thrive.

If you haven't had an opportunity to attend a meeting to discuss this defining moment, they are still happening across the state. To find one near you, visit the Community Conversations Website. The more people we can engage in these meetings, the better opportunity we have of creating a new Michigan that functions for everyone.