Moving Mountains representatives present program to Golden K members

Golden K Chairperson Sue Proudfit, right, introduces guest speakers Denise and Bud Delano, volunteers from the Moving Mountains Adaptive Program. Judy Sielaff photo
KINGSFORD — Here it comes again. Another Monday morning with bright sunshine, warm temperatures and the Golden K meeting.
Chairperson Sue Proudfit conducted opening ceremonies, as Sue LeDuc warms up the ivories.
Lois Outcelt adjusts the microphone and begins announcing songs. We may not be the best chorus in town, but we do make a joyful noise. Singing older familiar songs makes one feel “groovy.”
Proudfit’s Thought for the Day was a quote from T. S. Elliot, “Every moment is a fresh beginning.” It has a special meaning for Golden K’ers of all ages.
Keeping the momentum going, the Welcome Song was sung for guests Denise and Bud Delano and Bonnie Spanton, who is a new Golden K member. Welcome aboard. Leon Gospodarek happily picked up winnings from the 50-50 drawing and Bill Roberts used his Happy Dollar thoughts to keep the group informed about the Michigan Technological University win over Hillsdale. Guest pianist Sue LeDuc was happy to be with the group and we are always grateful to have her.
Denise and Bud Delano, who are returned Golden K guests, provided an update for a marvelous program called Moving Mountains. This is an adaptive ski program designed for individuals with cognitive or physical disabilities. It provides an opportunity to experience skiing.
The Delanos have developed a program that continues to expand and grow. It gives individuals an opportunity to enjoy a winter sport they may have only dreamed of.
Several types of skiing opportunities are designed with the individual’s ability in mind.
This program has brought excitement and smiles to many eager skiers and their families. The program depends on volunteer assistance and many community members have come forward to help. There are hours of training and learning for those assisting. Instructors spend time with each student, getting to know their needs before hitting the hill. The students are fitted with the proper equipment and coached on using their strong points to handle various moves. Safety is vital and the participants’ accomplishments bring broad smiles from all involved.
The program is available to clients free of charge thanks to individual donations, grants and fundraisers. There is also a supportive Endowment Fund established with the Dickinson for Area Community Foundation.
Local businesses, individual donations, and organizations have been instrumental in making this project a success. Pine Mountain and Pine Grove continue to open their facilities for events.
The Delanos, along with their volunteers, continue to look for new and innovative ideas.
The Golden K enjoyed a video of the students receiving medals for their accomplishments. Donated medals were presented to each student, bringing huge smiles from all who witnessed that special moment.
To volunteer or donate go to the MMAP website at https://www.MovingMountains.org
The Golden K meeting at 10 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford will feature the Caring House. The meetings are open for anyone to come enjoy coffee and conversation.