SEMCA Celebration of Success 2001

On March 9th, SEMCA held its first Celebration of Success. This event was developed to give recognition to people who have overcome adversity and the people who are responsible for helping them achieve that success.

State Representative Glenn S. Anderson stated, “I was extremely honored to have been given the opportunity to recognize Michael Burton and many other outstanding individuals. Having persevered through many difficulties and becoming productive members of society, these individuals should be considered role models for others striving toward self-sufficiency. They stand as living proof that, with the support of a well administered program, those less fortunate and with multiple obstacles to overcome, also have the opportunity to pull themselves up by their own bootstraps.”

State Representative Glenn S. Anderson shakes hands with Bill Richardson from William D. Ford Career-Technical Center as Education Advisory Group Chairwoman Charlie Mahoney looks on.

State Representative Basham stated, “All too often we see people fall through the cracks of society because they’re never given a helping hand. It was very exciting then to learn about the many success stories from the participants in the SEMCA programs. Clearly the services provided by SEMCA were critical in allowing these hard working and determined individuals to make a better life for themselves. Both they and SEMCA staff should be very proud of their accomplishments.”

State Representative Raymond Basham (left) and Senator George Hart (right) were present to congratulate our award recipients.

State Senator Chris Dingell commented “these SEMCA programs at the same time provide support, role models, and mentors to people struggling to become the American Dream and should be the model for the other agencies throughout the State.”

Redford Township Supervisor Kevin Kelly shared these comments. “It is a pleasure for me to be here today at the SEMCA Celebration of Success. It is a pleasure to hear the stories of the people that SEMCA has helped. I also want to congratulate them on the fine work they do throughout the Southeast Michigan communities on creating partnerships for individuals who need work and for businesses who need workers. It is a great process and I want to congratulate them on all their hard effort and fine work.”

Redford Township Supervisor Kevin Kelly took the time to congratulate all of the award recipients.

In addition to the 13 success stories, several local schools were recognized for being nominated for the Governor’s Excellence in Practice Award.

The Cooke School in Northville won the award against stiff statewide competition. Other nominated schools were Westland’s William D. Ford Career-Technical Center, Riverview Community School District, Melvindale-Northern Allen Park Public Schools, and Michigan Health Academy.

The event also recognized the extraordinary contributions of Janet Moss to the SEMCA Workforce Development Board. Ms. Moss, representing the unemployment agency, has been a dedicated member of the board since its inception. She is retiring this year and will be greatly missed by all.

Ms. Moss holding her retirement award.

Senator George Hart also participated in the awards presentation “The State of Michigan is a leader in providing One Stop employment services to both job seekers and employers” stated Senator Hart. “Edward Trofinchuk and Michael Haney are outstanding examples of people who have the talent and commitment to succeed but needed the support of SEMCA and its partner agencies to get past the barriers that blocked their way”, he concluded. SEMCA would like to thank all of our community partners, providers and their staff for the hard work that they do everyday to help the residents of Wayne and Monroe counties improve their lives.

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