During the month of July 2005, Southwestern Minnesota Opportunity Council Inc. (SMOC) observes its 40th year of providing opportunities to the people and communities of Nobles, Rock, Pipestone and Murray Counties. Over the past 40 years SMOC has a proud history of providing services and opportunities in southwest Minnesota that net measurable outcomes for residents who want to become self-sufficient and contributing members of their communities. During this time, SMOC has forged lasting and mutually beneficial working partnerships with public and private organizations across our four county service area, such as county and city units of government, businesses, service organizations and other nonprofits. These partnerships are built on the principles of maximizing resources and limiting duplication of effort while providing opportunities to area residents. Additionally, SMOC has contributed to the economic development of the area as we engage numerous partners in the delivery of our services. Vendors and contractors of varied interests have assisted us and benefited from our work over the years.These combined efforts have produced many positive outcomes for our residents and their communities over these 40 years. Thousands of homes have been weatherized and rehabilitated which has reduced the blight and loss of housing stock in our communities. Our Head Start program has prepared thousands of children for K-12. SMOC Family Planning has served the health care needs of thousands of patients. SMOC Childcare Resource & Referral has assisted thousands of parents in finding childcare for their children, and has provided assistance to many childcare providers in improving their practices. The Energy Assistance Program has provided much needed help to so many who struggle to keep their families warm during our harsh winters. Transportation, emergency assistance and other programs have helped many families meet their most basic of needs over the years.Our success and longevity would not be possible without the support and help we receive from everyone in southwest Minnesota. SMOC will observe this occasion with a public open house from 2 to 5 p.m. on Monday, July 25, at its Worthington office. Program booths will be setup and staffed to answer your questions. Join us that day for refreshments and cake as we observe 40 years of "strengthening our people and communities."Neal W. StefflExecutive Director