One of the benefits of the holiday season is that encourages us to hit the pause button in our busy lives. It also gives us an opportunity to think about those less fortunate than ourselves as well as help our favorite non-profit organizations. And the act of giving is often times more satisfying than receiving.
Our local, state and national economies have made significant improvement over the last few years. But the need is still great! Michigan’s unemployment rate hovers around 5-percent. That’s a far cry from the nearly 15-percent rate in 2009 but still too high for the wealthiest nation in the world.
Even in this economic rebound, Michigan has more people living in poverty than 5 years ago, according to the U.S. Census. That’s a 17-percent increase. And from Grand Rapids to Detroit, median income in 3 out of every 4 Michigan cities and villages declined in the last 5 years.
There is still much work to be done. The life boats of too many people have not been lifted by this rising tide. Too many of those in need are the working poor, the homeless, moms and children. It’s extremely difficult for a lot of our local agencies and non-profits to keep up with the growing demand.
If you’re in a position to volunteer your services or make a donation - big or small - to a worthwhile charity or scholarship fund, we urge you to please do so! Working together, as a caring society, we can make a huge difference in the lives of many individuals.
Happy Holidays to all!
I’m Mike Murri, Vice President & General Manager
Broadcast: December 17, 2015
