State of Detroit Families - Dispatch From Mackinac, Part III

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By Sharlonda Buckman, CEO, Detroit Parent Network

This week in Brightmoor, at the site of the former Old Redford High School, a new Meijer store opened. This may not seem like a big deal to you if you live in a community where high quality grocery and corner stores are abundant and within walking distance. In Brightmoor, this is a big deal. Not only does this store bring close to 300 good jobs to families in Detroit, it also buys the optimism of community residents, because stores opening means commitment to their well-being. Our surroundings affect us.

Several weeks ago at the 2015 Mackinac Policy Conference, I spoke with Mark Murray, president of the Meijer chain of stores, based in Michigan. Earlier, Mark was also president of Grand Valley State University from 2001 to 2006. Meijer is a big supporter of anti-hunger efforts through its corporate social responsibility program. I asked Mark about what it was like in his family when there were tough times.

"In Michigan, there's enormous pressure on parents and children," said Mark. "We all want our children to be safe and protected. To be successful, families need to state the problem they are trying to solve and be unwavering in working through its solution."

Mark added that growing up his parents dealt with the pressures of raising a family by committing themselves to deal with whatever problems came up.

Stay connected to the state of families in Detroit and become more involved. By joining Detroit Parent Network, you can gain access to trainings, workshops, and parent support groups, among many other benefits. Find out more at detroitparentnetwork.org or on Facebook and Twitter (@DPNdetroit).