Joanne Lindholm photo Golden K Chairperson Joan Jouppi introduces guest speaker Katie Cherney, program director at The Cure.

KINGSFORD — When the thoughts of a long winter are getting you down, you could benefit from the advice of a pumpkin — be well rounded, get plenty of sunshine, give thanks for life’s beauty, have a thick skin, keep growing, be outstanding in your field and think big.

As Golden K seniors gather on Monday morning, we are all thankful for the sunny yet brisk day. The warm coffee and camaraderie that awaits within the doors is always welcome.

Chairperson Joan Jouppi brought everyone to their feet with a tapping of the gavel. Alyce Derwinski played the melodies, as Rich Ochoa led the singing of old, familiar songs.

Jouppi introduced the day’s guests, Kendra Trulock, Katie Cherney and Linda and Dennis Wilcott. They were greeted with the guest song. Birthday greetings rang out for Mary Jane Nelson and Kendra Trulock.

Happy Dollar messages were read by Gary Proudfit. Bill Roberts and Charlie Yonts enjoyed their time at the Superior Dome as Michigan Tech won the Miner’s Cup for the 15th straight year. Sue and Gary Proudfit were thankful for a furnace repair and Kirk Olson was happy that the Pack is back.

Winnings from the Pot of Gold were collected by Judy Sielaff. Jouppi’s thought for the day was “Falling is the easy part — it’s the landing that’s hard.”

Katie Cherney, program director for The Cure in Iron Mountain, was introduced.

The Cure is a nonprofit mentoring program for students ages 10 to 24. They believe transformative power of support, education and empowerment is promoting positive mental health outcomes for students.

During COVID-19, area teens were struggling and feeling lost. Heather Ruesch, CEO and founder of The Cure, felt the need was great for students to have somewhere to go where they could learn how to balance their physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health and wellness.

These skills are taught through one-on-one coaching, life skills workshops and student leadership alliance.

The student leadership alliance is made up of high school and college-aged students who are committed to learning leadership skills, becoming peer mentors and mental health advocates, as well as making a long-lasting, positive impact on the community.

The Cure began nearly three years ago and has grown exponentially. In 2024, they had 1,300 student visits. It is projected that there will be 2,500 student visits by the end of this year.

Their approach works as they incorporate evidence-based and strategies that are informed by research and best practice in youth mental health to ensure the effectiveness and relevance of their interventions, while offering holistic support that addresses the multifaceted needs of youth. They are 100% community funded.

Quotes from some of their clientele include “they believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself,” “you challenged me,” “you stood by my side,” “you pushed me to be my best,” “I have formed friendships that I never thought I would have” and “they gave me courage.”

A parent wrote that The Cure was “life transforming for her daughter.”

These and many other positive comments show that their vision of offering compassionate mediation, guidance and mentorship is working.

The Cure is owned and operated by Live Life Loud Resources and is at 922 River Ave. in Iron Mountain. They can be reached by calling 906-828-1643.

Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. The presenter will be Sonia Donnelly, who will talk about Girl Scouts. All are welcome.