Partnership with Michigan Youth Opportunities Initiative and State Health Department Creates Skills Event for Foster Children

The Michigan State Medical Society today hosted a Youth Career Day for area foster children designed to educate young adults on the benefits of pursuing careers in health care.

Nearly 30 young adults identified by the Michigan Youth Opportunity Initiative (MYOI) participated in today's event. The MYOI is a partnership between the Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services intended to improve outcomes for youths transitioning from foster care to adulthood.

"We're thrilled to partner with the Michigan Youth Opportunity Initiative and contribute to the important work they're doing to enhance the success of our area youth," said David M. Krhovsky, MD, president of MSMS. "There were a lot of great young minds on hand today, and we all benefit if we succeeded in inspiring any of them to pursue a career in the medical profession."

Physicians and medical professional were present throughout the day to provide information about their field and guidance to those in attendance. Physicians Cheryl Gibson Fountain, MD, MSMS President-elect, Mildred Willy, MD, and Sandra Dettmann, MD, delivered formal presentations to the group of 14 - 20 year-olds.

The Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative is a national organization operating that believes every young person leaving foster care should have the family connections, opportunities, and support they need for a successful transition to adulthood.

The Michigan State Medical Society is a professional association of more than 15,000 Michigan physicians. Its mission is to promote a health care environment which supports physicians in caring for, and enhancing the health of Michigan citizens through science, quality, and ethics in the practice of medicine. Please visit www.msms.org for more information.