Representatives from the The Caring House were the featured speaker at Golden K meeting Monday. Golden K chairperson Lois Outcelt, left, introduces guests Shanna Stanley, child-family advocate; Maverick, Caring House therapy dog; and Wendy Middaugh, executive director. (Judy Sielaff photo)

KINGSFORD — Time is an interesting part of life. We count on it to stay focused. We measure it to get from one place to another in an orderly fashion. It helps us align engagements and set limits on late night adventures for our children.

June is a halfway mark for the year. School is done and it’s time for summer fun. In the U.P., we’ve learned to use this time wisely, as it will pass quickly.

The seniors at Golden K enjoy time together on Monday mornings. Lois Outcelt took the podium as chairperson for June. Guests welcomed for the day included Wendy Middaugh, executive director of the Caring House; Shanna Stanley, child and family advocate at the Caring House; and service dog Maverick. Visiting were relatives from the Jouppi household, Debbie Douglas and Dickie Thomas from Washington state. Topping off the guest list was Autumn Morse, relocating to the area from Arkansas.

Gary Proudfit is the Golden K Happy Dollar Man. He reads grateful thoughts submitted by members and guests. Proudfit was happy to have his brother visiting as he came to see a granddaughter graduate from Marquette High School. Kirk Olson was happy for successful picnic for the students with special needs. Guest Dickie Thomas was happy for her first visit to Michigan and for winning the 50-50 drawing. Happy Birthday wishes were sung for Shirley Winters, and Happy Anniversary wishes went to Larry and Joanne Lindholm.

The day’s presentation featured The Caring House, a 24-hour crisis venter that has been in operation since 1981. It offers a safe environment for men, women and children that have been caught in a domestic violence situation.

Serving 300 to 500 people, the Caring House services are non-judgmental and supportive. It is a safe place for families as they make critical life decisions. Their services are free and confidential.

Caring House works with law enforcement, courts, schools, and hospitals and health departments.

The Child Advocate Program, developed in 2018, works with children who are trying to overcome trauma situations that have occurred within their homes. Shanna and Maverick work together to help build security and confidence. Feeling safe and being able to communicate thoughts is vital to the healing process. It’s a multi-agency effort orchestrating protection, scheduling interviews, arranging court appearances and scheduling medical exams. Talking to officials about sensitive issues is intimidating. Having an advocate partner helps ease the stress.

Funding a non-profit organization is challenging. Grants, gifts, donations, and community support is essential for the Caring House.

Anyone can donate items of food, products for cleaning, paper products and personal care and clothing items. Go to their website for more information and to find out how you can help at www.caringhouseim.com.

Golden K will at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford, with Diane Schabo, president of the Dickinson County Cancer Unit Loan Closet.