Michigan cannot afford that loss. The availability of quality, affordable housing is essential to thriving communities. Funding will be specifically available for housing rehabilitation and development tied to local adult education, job training, and other human service efforts. In addition, public assistance recipients will be provided with opportunities to learn new skills in the building trades and fulfill their obligations under the social contract, referred to previously, by performing important community service and rehabilitating homes in their neighborhoods. As with Communities First, neighborhood revitalization efforts should reflect the needs and goals of the neighborhood.
Examples abound of successful efforts to reclaim neighborhoods from decay and crime in Michigan.
These examples should be followed wherever the need exists. One such movement is the Ravendale neighborhood in Detroit. Through the efforts of the Joy of Jesus, led by Reverend Eddie Edwards, Ravendale has succeeded in rehabilitating numerous neighborhood homes, helping families to overcome barriers to success, and working with resident block clubs to eliminate drug related crime and improve the quality of life for all who reside in the community. The social contract between the state and recipients of public assistance enables people to develop their own talents, improve their lives and contribute to their communities. Similarly, the state and local communities should work cooperatively to re-invigorate Michigan's neighborhoods.