Joanne Lindholm photo The Dickinson County Salvation Army gave a presentation to the Golden K Club. From left are Salvation Army Case Manager Jennifer Witte, Case Manager and Director Tara Coss, and Ben Determan, Golden K chairperson.

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — Stop whatever your doing. Take a deep breath, and let it out slowly. Then look around outside. As seasons change the trees are putting forth an amazing color that deserves to be savored and absorbed. It doesn’t last long. Colors soon fade, leaves drop, and bare tree branches will reach toward the sky anticipating snow.

Golden K members gathered together in fellowship at the Presbyterian Church for their weekly meeting. Bill Roberts stepped in as chairman and rang the bell.

Opening ceremonies brought everyone to their feet. Alyce Derwinski connected to the piano and signaled her able helper Lois Outcelt to begin the singing.

The day starts with two or three old-time songs that some remember, some approach cautiously, and some just listen to. Music always makes people feel good.

The Welcome Song greeted guest speakers Tara Coss and Jennifer Witte from The Salvation Army. Coss is the director of the local Salvation Army and Witte is the case manager.

Sharon Scholke picked up winnings from the 50-50 drawing and Happy Birthday wishes were sung for Bill Roberts and Joseph Anderson.

The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign was created in the 1800s by a gentleman who wanted to do something for the poor.

After much thought, he remembered seeing an iron pot near a docking area in which people passing by tossed in a coin or two. Joseph MeFee took that idea, got a pot and sat out on a corner in London to encourage people to drop in a coin.

He began the mission of The Salvation Army, which is to meet the human needs of the poor without discrimination. From a quiet corner to a international organization, volunteers still ring the bell and encourage donations to the red kettles.

This year’s kettle fundraising is scheduled from Nov. 15 to Dec. 23. Anyone can help out by calling the local office at 906-779-5717.

Volunteer segments are two hours long at local merchants around town. Pick a date, time or place and their crew will provide details. Some local businesses participate in a program called Round-Up. While shopping, you can round up your purchase at check out.

The extra change is accumulated and passed on to the charity. It’s a wonderful time of the year to meet and greet people and help those in need. Both Coss and Witte spend countless hours organizing care for people who come to them with a myriad of needs.

The organization’s program “Pathway to Hope” offers assistance tailored to each individual situation. They help people get back on their feet financially and work with those who are transitioning back into society.

They work to prevent homelessness by assisting clients to find affordable living quarters. The Salvation Army also runs a busy, active food pantry.

There is a need for food, personal hygiene and cleaning items and household goods. The staff at the Salvation Army facility will gladly provide you with that information.

Their main office is at 145 Roseland St. in Kingsford. It is open from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Friday mornings are by appointment.

Volunteers and financial donations are welcomed as well. The Salvation Army staff works tirelessly to integrate community resources and programs that allows them to ensure each client’s needs are met.

Both travel many miles delivering meals during the holidays. These ladies are committed to doing everything they can to ensure that those in need are cared for.

Golden K meets Monday, with the U.P. Nurses Honor Guard as a scheduled speaker. Coffee and conversation await.