Local musicians are stepping up to perform for the 3rd annual Cookies for a Cause event hosted by Michigan Northern Lights to benefit the Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan (WRCNM). The benefit concert will take place at the First United Methodist Church in Gaylord from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., on Thursday, November 21. The evening will showcase the talents of the Harmonie Meisters, Paige Wolford on the violin/fiddle, the Alpine Bells, Claire Mammoser on piano, the Michigan Northern Lights chorus and other musical acts. A donation ensures an evening of music, cookies and a cup of coffee; stay a few minutes or for the entire show.

The WRCNM provides a variety of programs and services for women, children and families in the region, including survivors of domestic abuse and their children. A significant percentage of homeless women find themselves in crisis due to domestic violence. The WRCNM provides a safe haven for these families at the area’s Safe Home. A recent letter to the Herald Times written by Chris Krajewski of the WRCNM relates that survivors of domestic abuse may come from highly controlled relationships and often lack the resources to leave the home they share with an abuser. Currently, in the United States, 37,000 survivors and their children live in shelters or transitional housing. The WRCNM provides support, counseling and a secure and caring shelter for survivors, free of charge.

Michigan Northern Lights Chorus is celebrating its eleventh year as a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, a worldwide singing organization dedicated to advancing the musical art form of four-part barbershop harmony through education and performance. The nonprofit group has performed for many organizations and events in Gaylord, including Alpenfest, the Downtown Christmas Stroll and at area nursing homes. Other performances in the area have included Victorian Days in West Branch, the Historical Museum in Houghton Lake, Christmas Open House in Petoskey and Wellington Farms in Grayling.

Cookies for a Cause will be held at the First United Methodist Church located at 215 South Center, Gaylord. For more information on WRCNM programs and services, call their administrative office at (231) 347-0067. Survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault or other violent crimes are provided immediate support and information by calling the WRCNM’s 24-hour crisis and information line at (800) 275-1995.