Dear Governor Thompson:

On behalf of the Governor's Wisconsin Works (W-2) and Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse (AODA) Task Force I would like to express our appreciation for the opportunity to be involved in this valuable project. I believe the Task Force has fully addressed the mission and the goals we were charged with and have made practical recommendations regarding the AODA program needs of our W-2 participants.

Substance abuse problems present states and local communities with unique challenges regarding the goal of moving people from welfare to work and the integration of recovery and employment activities. The Task Force recommendations of early identification, inter-systems collaboration, and comprehensive case management are the prime facilitators of addressing substance abuse within welfare reform and are the first steps in breaking down this barrier to employment.

Thanks to your vision and courage, the State of Wisconsin has made an investment in and commitment to our low-income families by leading the nation in a bold welfare replacement program. By continuing to provide the enhanced services that our families need, we will show that sustained self-sufficiency is the true indicator of our success.

Thank you again for allowing us the opportunity to address this challenging barrier that must be overcome by many W-2 participants before they can become self-sufficient and provide for themselves and their families. It is my privilege to present the Task Force recommendations and the publication guide entitled Making it Work.

Sincerely,