Ben Determan photo Golden K APRIL Chairwoman Orice Walters, left, and Sharon Scholke, right, present speakers Bud and Denise DeLano with a $300 donation from the Jim Verrette family for the Moving Mountains Project. Verrette was a long-time Golden K member.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — In a lifetime, many things bring a genuine good feeling to the soul. Green sprouts peeking out of the garden around patches of snow create one of those moments. Small green leaves swaying in the not-so-gentle breeze inspire renewed hope of spring.

Golden K members gather every Monday morning and look forward to fresh coffee and doughnuts. Members are anxious to share recent weekend events and to discover new things about the community around them.

Chairwoman Orice Walters rings the bell, signaling Alyce Derwinski to bring on the music.

Sharon Scholke happily pocketed winnings from the 50-50 drawing and Gary Proudfit read Happy Dollar thoughts, which reflected joy in many directions. Ron Jouppi couldn’t find paper big enough to write all his happy thoughts. Three consecutive days of sunshine precipitated an outpouring of happiness.

The thought for the day was a quote from Harrison Ford — when asked for advice, he simply says, “Learn how to be useful. It will take a lot of the mystery out of life.”

Sharon Scholke introduced guests Bud and Denise DeLano, as they embodied Harrison Ford’s advice and created the Moving Mountains Project. They put their heart and soul into a program that has changed the lives of many.

Individuals living with a variety of disabilities are helped to remove obstacles that have prevented them from doing things they enjoy. Programs are continually evolving for the handicapped, opening doors to adventures most felt were beyond their capabilities.

The Delanos established an adaptive skiing program in the local area about 12 years ago. The program has grown each year with additional participants, increased knowledge and improved equipment for the skiers.

Learning to ski, snowboard and venture into the unknown is a transforming experience for the instructors, the individuals and their families. Many hours of training go into qualifying instructors who partner with a client.

Together they tackle a mountain of apprehension culminating in that first ride down the hill. When families, teachers, onlookers and the DeLanos see the face of a skier successfully completing their run down the hill, the emotion runs high. The radiant smiles from the participants reveal the true value of the project.

There’s an old song about the ant who couldn’t move a rubber tree plant. Well he did it. Whatever the handicap, be assured there is a way to help move the mountain and find a way. Willing volunteers work with disabled persons of all ages. Pine Mountain Ski lodge and a community of support have made a world of difference in many lives.

Golden K will meet Monday, with Beth Bray bringing the Golden K up to date on the Children’s Museum. All are welcome for coffee at 10 a.m. and program at 10:30 a.m