Alpena Community Working to Raise $30,000 for Friends Together
Friends Together in Alpena is a resource for many who are fighting against cancer.
They offer support groups, lodging and transportation to and from treatment and a warm environment. For them, no one should have to face cancer alone. “When they walk through our doors, there is a warm embrace of some sort, whether physically or just in our welcoming nature that this is a safe space for you,” said Judy Burns, executive director of Friends Together. “You are not alone, and we know how to help you navigate your journey.”
An anonymous donor has pledged $30,000 for Friends Together as long as the non-profit can raise $30,000 to match it. They have until the end of October to raise the money. So far, multiple notable organizations in the community have stepped up to help.
One of those is the Alpena City Police Department who is sporting pink patches on their uniforms all month. They’re also available to the public for purchase at $10 a piece at the station. All of the proceeds go towards friends together. The idea was spearheaded by Officer Linnessa Mellberg. “I feel we need to bring awareness. This is very important,” she said. “I’m sure each person has been affected by cancer and we just felt that October was one of the bigger months and we wanted to help.”
LeFave pharmacy is also getting in on the opportunity to help out friends together. They have a number of ways people can contribute when they walk in. “As healthcare providers, we definitely see the impact that cancer has on patients and their families and we also see what friends together does for the community. So as major sponsors, we were happy to help,” said Kristine Spicer, owner of the pharmacy.
With a total of over $5,000 raised so far, Spicer, who also sits on the board for Friends Together, hopes what the pharmacy is promoting will bring them closer to the goal. “We have a round up your change opportunity at the register. We have a raffle going. Some of the items in the raffle are displayed here and you can buy raffle tickets,” she said. “We will be raffling at the end of the month. We have memory ribbons so you can purchase for a donation.”
To reach their goal of $30,000, Friends Together encourages the public to contact them or make a stop anywhere they’re promoting their “Our People Need Your People” campaign. With the funds they plan to add another van that they use to transport patients to and from treatment.
