GOV. GRANHOLM ANNOUNCES MI OPPORTUNITY PARTNERSHIP

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth issued the following news release:

Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the MI Opportunity Partnership, Working for Jobs Today! employer pledge drive is on target to reach its year two goal of placing 40,000 workers into jobs. The program, which matches unemployed workers with existing job vacancies, and provides accelerated training for future high growth career opportunities such as health care, is a key element of Granholm's comprehensive plan to invest in the state's economy.

"As Michigan's workers cope with the effects of a changing global economy, thousands of good jobs remain vacant across our state," said Granholm. "We will continue our intense job training and placement efforts, including the MI Opportunity Partnership, to ensure that unemployed citizens receive the training they need and are connected with the job vacancies that exist."

The Governor called on employers to invest in Michigan's future as a third pledge drive letter is being mailed out to more than 258,0000 employers across the state. The letter, which once again asks employers to pledge existing job openings to the program, also highlights a number of expanded services provided by the Department of Labor & Economic Growth (DLEG). DLEG oversees the MI Opportunity Partnership and is coordinating the pledge campaign.

"Employers pledging jobs are finding the qualified workers they need now to help their businesses grow and prosper," said Robert W. Swanson, director of DLEG. "Michigan Works! Agencies are continuing to respond quickly to the thousands of employer pledges and requests for additional assistance to find workers."

The state, in partnership with Michigan Works!, helps employers hire workers with the skills they are looking for. Professional staff at the more than 100 Michigan Works! offices across the state pre-screen workers, make appropriate referrals, provide information on training opportunities, and help both employers and workers use the Web-based Michigan Talent Bank.

"The unprecedented outreach to, and response from employers brought us success in year one," Swanson said. "Our intensive job placement services benefiting employers will help us achieve success in year two."

The MI Opportunity Partnership, introduced by Granholm in her 2005 State of the State message, is part of her comprehensive economic plan to create jobs, restructure and diversify Michigan's economy, change the state's business tax structure, expand access to higher education, and ensure that the state has a well-trained workforce.

Employers can pledge their job openings at www.michigan.gov/jobstoday or by calling 1-800-285-WORKS. They will automatically be connected to their local Michigan Works! service center.

Contact: Lori Donlan, 517/373-9280.