Ribbon Cut at New Hospice Project

For more information about this hospice endeavor, visit bigrandsmokinjoes.com, email bigrsmokin@yahoo.com or call 989-854-3040. Donation contributions can be made through PayPal@BigRSmokinJoes or contact a board member vis the website for physical donations. Those interested in volunteering or becoming a board member should call or text.

Comfort House

2246 E. Cranberry Lake Road
harrison, MI 48625

By DIANNE ALWARD-BIERY

Cleaver Senior Staff Writer

HARRISON – Saturday, April 12 brought an event of special note: the official ribbon cutting at Big R & Smokin’ Joe’s Hospice. This project will fill a crucial void in the Harrison area and beyond. The sign greeting attendees at the door read:

“We are a non-profit that was started in 2005 with the goal of raising funds to purchase a location/house in Clare County for end-of-life care for the terminally ill. This house is meant to be a home like environment that is peaceful and has compassionate staff during an intense, emotional time. Services to families needing to use this 24-hour care is at no charge to them.

We have raised enough funds to guy a building in Harrison, Michigan.

We thank you for your support and donations.”

This is still an early step in a process that will see the former church at 2246 E. Cranberry Lake Road converted into a hospice offering five private bedrooms, each with its own bathroom and shower facilities; staffing and office areas; kitchen and dedicated dining room.

Prior to the ribbon cutting, board members Juliet Kleinhardt and Dave Pohoda addressed those in attendance, as did guest speakers Harrison Area Chamber Director Wendy Heinig and Michigan State Rep. Tom Kunse.

Kleinhardt began by introducing the organization’s mission, beginning with the statement above, adding that the organization’s journey had been a collaborative effort. “And I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone on the board,” she said. “I also want to thank, on the board’s behalf, anyone who’s played a part in making this dream a reality, from beginning to end. From our dedicated team to the invaluable support of our community: your contributions have been instrumental. In purchasing this building, we are dedicated to doing the renovations necessary to see our mission come to life.”

She said the day was more than just cutting a ribbon, but served to mark a milestone in the journey, and that she was confident that with the community’s continued support, great things would be achieved.

Dave Pohoda, board vice chairman, then rose to share some thoughts, beginning by reiterating that it was a big undertaking.

“There’s four of us on the board, but there’s a lot more than four of us doing it,” Pohoda said. “We get help from different communities, organizations and people. A good example is the Clare Moose Lodge, that has bent over backwards; anything we do, they support. When we bought this building, we had to get it rezoned, and make sure it’s still listed as a non-profit so we didn’t have to pay taxes on it. The Hayes Township Board stepped up and they helped any way they could – they made it so easy.”

He went on to describe a bit what changes would be done to the structure, and added that those who will be served will already have signed a DNR [do not resuscitate] order. “So we’re going to try to help them through their last days,” Pohoda said. He pointed out how fortunate his group was to have the assistance of other hospice houses, as well as the resources available through Omega Home Network, a nationwide network set up to help organizations set up their hospice endeavors.

Pohoda explained that the ribbon cutting was a transition from Phase 1 to Phase 2 in the process, which includes seeking a grant for remodeling the structure to the specs established. He said part of the grant application process included provision of an estimated budget. Pohoda said he estimates an annual cost of $150,000 to operate, which he said sounds like a lot, but also cited two other houses which operate on $200,000 and $500,000 a year – all of which comes from donations. He said financial donations as well as any volunteer assistance is welcome, and also noted the annual spring golf outing fundraiser is scheduled for May 17. That event welcomes volunteer assistance, as well as team sign-ups at $240 for a four-person scramble.

Next to speak was board member Wendy Heinig, Harrison Area Chamber of Commerce president.

“It’s our honor and pleasure to be here for the ribbon-cutting ceremony,” Heinig said. “What a mission these folks have been on, and now things are happening and their dream is coming to fruition. And as a part of the Harrison area, we’re pleased to support that. I can’t image how wonderful it will feel to the families to have a solid base right here, locally, to support them. I think the Clare County area is going to help you to accomplish all of your goals. We’re here to support and to help, whatever they need and what we can do for them to make sure their events are successful and well-attended, and any other kinds business we can push your way. So, welcome. Welcome to the community!”

At this point, longtime donor and Michigan State Rep. Tom Kunse rose to the podium.

“It’s an honor to stand before you today to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary work of Big R & Smokin’ Joes Comfort House,” he said. “Since 2005, this organization has embodied the very best of what it means to serve others with compassion and dedication. At a time when families are facing life’s most difficult decisions, this house offers more than just a building. It offers comfort, and dignity, and peace. The care provided here will not just be medical, it will be deeply personal. It’s about creating a space that feels like a home, a place where loved ones can spend meaningful time together, where patients are treated with respect and grace, and where families can find comfort without financial stress.

“Cancer and terminal illness affect too many in our communities, and it’s organizations like this one that shine the light in those darkest of times. Their commitment to ensuring that no one is left to face the end of life alone is a remarkable act of humanity. I want to personally thank all of the staff and everyone involved with Big R & Smokin’ Joes for their tireless efforts. You’ve raised the funds; you’ve found the building; the steps you’ve made are just impressible. Most importantly, you’re building hope for families in need. On behalf of the State of Michigan, all the families you’ve helped and will help in the future, thank you for being a true blessing to our community. Keep up the incredible work, and continue to make a difference one life and one family at a time.”

Kleinhardt then addressed the gathering, informing that the current board is comprised of four people: a board whose membership has gone up and down. Currently there is need for an individual to join. The assemblage then moved outdoors for the formal cutting of the ribbon on the new facility.

After that bold red ribbon was cut, Dave Pohoda provided a tour of the existing structure, pointing out where the various components of the facility would be and what would be required to effect those structural changes.

Discussion followed with representatives from two other area hospice facilities, each offering information and some pointers gleaned from their own experiences.

In all, there is great hope for the success of this new endeavor, accompanied by the realization that there is substantial fundraising to be done. At the same time, the hospice board is confident that funds will be realized along with the ability to bring comfort to those in the closing stage of their lives, as well as their families.

© Clare County Cleaver