October 16, 2003

DEARBORN – A Michigan-based human services organization will present Michigan First Gentleman Daniel Granholm Mulhern with an award tonight for his efforts to strengthen Michigan families by encouraging men to reevaluate their roles and impact on family life and for his support for much needed mentoring programs in Michigan.

Spectrum Human Services, Inc., a human services organization based in Westland, is presenting Mulhern with its Chairman’s Award tonight at the Spectrum Celebration of Stars Annual Gala. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn. This is the 25th anniversary celebration for Spectrum, and the awards given out this evening are to recognize volunteers, financial supporters, and members of the community who assist those most in need.

As First Gentleman, Mulhern has taken a leadership role for the administration on several issues that relate to families, such as parenting, mentoring, and education. He is the chair of the Michigan Community Service Commission, where he works to promote and expand volunteerism in Michigan. He also is working to develop Mentor Michigan, which will work with communities and organization on establishing comprehensive mentoring services for children around the state.

“I am very honored to receive this award because it further calls attention to the need for fathers to take a more active and engaged role in their families,” Mulhern said. “I am equally glad that Spectrum has noticed the administration’s efforts to promote mentoring of children and the impact it can have on our state’s children to have caring, stable adult role models in their lives.”

Founded in 1976, Spectrum Human Services provides services to mentally, physically and emotionally challenged children and adults. With 950 employees in 11 offices in Michigan, Spectrum serves the needs of 4,000 Michigan residents each year.