Dr. Paul Jacobs photo Tamara Juul, left, executive director of the Dickinson Area Community Foundation, presents a mini-grant check for $250 to Orice Walters, Golden K program chairwoman.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — “Hey, Hey Good Looking” was one of the many songs that brightened the day for the Golden K. Alyce Derwinski got the piano rocking out song after song. With Lois Outcelt directing and the group responding with vibrant Monday-morning voices that cannot be denied, this group was ready to tackle the week ahead.

Bill Roberts, chairman for November, opened the business meeting.

Happy birthday wishes to Myrna Ward, Nov. 11, and Mary Tachick, Nov. 12. Happy anniversary to Jim and Mary Benzing, Nov. 6. LeRoy Lindstrom was the lucky 50-50 winner.

Guests welcomed were Tamara Juul, executive director of Dickinson Area Community Foundation; and Bob Bowman’s daughter, Linda.

One Happy Dollar from Gary and Sue Proudfit reflected their joy at having a houseful of children and grandchildren visit. Having family visit for the day or so makes for a wonderful weekend.

Orice Walters, as program chairwoman, introduced, Tamara Juul as guest speaker. Juul is the executive director of the Dickinson Area Community Foundation. She is married to Steve Juul and the mother of three children and juggles this life with DACF and the Dickinson County Hospital Foundation. Two very separate organizations, with some of the same goals in mind.

She brought the members some positive news concerning the hospital. While there are “grass roots” efforts going on, Juul felt the hospital is moving in a good direction.

She handed out an extended annual report that covered everything the DACF does with the mini-grants. The DACF has foundation officers, trustees and a Youth Advisory Committee. Mini-grants are available all year. Grants are provided for organizations that are in line with the DACF mission statement. “Enhance the quality of life for all residents of Dickinson County, adjacent Crystal Falls and surrounding Wisconsin communities.” The list of possibilities for grants is extensive and growing. The areas covered by these grants is exhausting but very much needed and welcomed by recipients.

There were scholarships awarded within Dickinson County alone totaling $92,070 in 2017.

This organization manages 105 endowment funds for various purposes. They host agency, field of interest, scholarship, youth, homeless prevention, civic improvement and environment funds. Endowment funds continue to generate income for future generations, according to the 2017 annual report. They have grown from $3 million to $11 million.

It is local people giving to help local organizations as well as involving local citizens to be a part the workings of the grant process.

Bringing the youth in on the process also encompasses all ages to be a part of their community’s growth and well-being.

Some residents are on the giving side and some are on the receiving side of this program. It is a win-win for all.

You may see Juul’s picture now and then in the newspaper and notice she has a busy schedule. However, she is available at any time to answer questions, listen to new suggestions and ideas.

More information can be viewed at www.dickinsonareacommunityfoundation.org or wwwfacebook.com/forgoodforever.