DEARBORN – More than 120 people turned out for the inaugural meeting of Michigan Survives, a new organization that has been formed to help laid-off professionals in metro Detroit, and to show them that there is life after lay-off.

One of the organizers, Eudora Adolph, said that she found the response, ?overwhelmingly positive and we expect the next event that will be held April 5th to be even bigger.?

As a transplant to Michigan, Adolph said she saw the need for an organization that could offer a network of resources for professionals who had lost their jobs through corporate downsizing, layoffs, company bankruptcies, and plant closings.

?These life-changing events often create intense stress, personal uncertainty and even panic,? said Adolph. ?Our state needs a local organization that provides positive, informative professional support and service for all levels of professionals.?

She said that her experience has shown her that other cities such as Chicago, San Jose and New York have those kinds of associations where members and guests meet to network, share key information, and receive educational and functional support.

?I?ve long been aware that we don?t have the support groups for unemployed professionals that other major metropolitan areas have,? she explained. ?Michigan Survives will fill that need.?

Adolph believes that the work of Michigan Survives will not only benefit the group?s members, but will also help the state of Michigan?s economic development efforts.

?To help Michigan maintain a strong global position during these changing times, we need to help each other transition and grow, along with identifying new career opportunities,? she said.

The organization that was launched March 1 at Bailey?s Pub & Grille in Dearborn is a professional support and educational group that is designed to provide effective marketing, networking, topical information and emotional support and motivation. Adolph hopes to attract interest from all professions, including all of the technical, non-technical, management and executive levels.

?Remember, we are only six people away from knowing everyone in the world,? she said. ?So let?s share contacts and strategize how this organization can be more successful.?

The group?s first meeting included professional networking, along with breakout sessions that included guest presenters. Adolph said the March 1st meeting also brought together a group of volunteers to help lead and support Michigan Survives.

Adolph believes the regular meetings of Michigan Survives will including structured networking, guest presentations and workshops.

The next meeting of Michigan Survives will be held April 5th at 6:30 p.m. at Bailey?s Pub & Grille, 22091 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn. There will be no charge for admission, but advance registration is required. You can register online by sending an emal to [email protected]

For more information, click on MISurvives.Org