Life

Golden K hears program on Caring House

KINGSFORD -- The new school year traditionally begins after Labor Day. Recently, a 5-year-old was dropped off at school. She approached the big building, noticing a lot of unfamiliar faces and began to falter in her steps. Nervous, apprehensive feelings crept in. As she paused in her steps, she was greeted by a teacher approaching with a big smile. The little girl stopped, snapped her fingers and said, "I got this!" Off she went. Monday morning with the Golden K is full of those radiant smiles. Everyone is welcome to visit this group and enjoy the happy energy.

Chair Sue Proudfit brought the group to order. There's not a better way to start a week. Alyce Derwinski tuned in on the piano with her choice of songs for the day. Lois Outcelt leads the singing with an enthusiastic charm that radiates through the group. Those old songs ring out, and you'd have to be there to fully appreciate the chorus. The welcome song continued to brighten the day for guests Marti Swisher and Dawn Calcari.

Rolling with the positive momentum, Judy Seilaff picked up winnings from the 50-50 drawing and Gary Proudfit wittily read Happy Dollars, reflecting thankful families. Dawn Calcari celebrates her triumph over a serious health issue, and Dan Pedo was happy his brother, Steve, got home safely from Europe.

Proudfit then introduced Marti Swisher, who has been associated with the Caring House since 1995. She has seen many crisis, traumas and family situations come into the Caring House and many have left in far better condition.

The Caring House is aptly named, since the staff does just that. Each person and dilemma is evaluated and treated by professional personnel. Men, women, and children are given a safe place to stay while their individual problem is addressed. Situations of domestic violence affect entire families, as well as friends and neighbors. The scenarios are varied and complicated. It's not always black and white when it comes to victim and perpetrator.

Men may be victimized as well as women. Children have a difficult time overcoming trauma. The Caring House staff work with child advocates, therapists and law enforcement. They offer counseling. They see to the needs of those who venture out on their own searching for a new way of life. Clothing and other household items are made available for those in transition. They deal with a myriad of issues on a daily basis. Their goal is to keep clients safe and informed. Confidentiality is strictly respected within the legal boundaries. Donations of all kinds of household items as well as clothing for men, women and children are welcome. Before you toss it out, stop at 1305 Prospect Ave. to see if the Caring House could use that item.

October is designated Domestic Violence Month. The Caring House invites all interested residents to gather at the Dickinson County Sheriff's Department at 11:45 a.m. Oct. 17 for a "Honk Your Horn" procession to the Covenant Church, where refreshments will be served. This is one way to support the work of the Caring House and all those in every community working to lessen the threat of domestic violence.

Once each year, the Golden K holds a peanut fundraiser. Perhaps you saw our bright yellow shirts at the entrances to local businesses this past September. The funds donated give the Golden K the opportunity to provide scholarships to two local students, as well as three yearly events for children with special needs.

Golden K seniors wish to thank all residents and visitors for their support through donations. Special thanks go out to Jacobs Funeral Home; ERA Chevrolet; First National Bank & Trust; First Bank; Fleury, Singler & Co.; Danielson's Insurance; Edwards Automotive; LaFaive Oil; Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home; Blagec Brothers; Northern Interstate Bank of Norway; Pleasant View Orchards; and Iron Mountain-Kingsford Community Federal Credit Union. Giving a little or a lot, the residents and businesses of the Upper Peninsula always come through for their neighbors. Upper Michigan is unique because of the people who live there.

The Monday meeting will feature Tony Edlebeck, retired city manager of Kingsford, as guest speaker. He will share a presentation highlighting the history of the city of Kingsford. All are welcome at 10 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford.