11/12/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tenth Annual Gathering of Friends: A Community Success
FREMONT, MI — November 6, 2025, The Newaygo County Compassion Home extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the Tenth Annual Gathering of Friends fundraiser held on Friday, October 24, 2025. It was a truly special evening filled with fellowship, laughter, and generosity, all in support of our mission to provide compassionate end-of-life care for individuals and families across Newaygo County.
With more than 225 guests in attendance, along with sponsors and community partners, the event surpassed all expectations. We are thrilled to announce that we exceeded our $65,000 fundraising goal by more than $18,000, an incredible milestone for our organization.
Funds were raised through both live and silent auctions, along with our popular 50/50 and bucket raffles. New this year, a paddle raise was introduced to support key Compassion Home projects, and it was met with overwhelming enthusiasm and success.
Every dollar raised helps ensure that guests and their loved ones continue to receive exceptional, compassionate care in a peaceful home setting. Your support makes it possible for the Compassion Home to serve families during one of life’s most tender and meaningful times.
This event would not have been possible without the dedication and generosity of our sponsors, volunteers, and community supporters.
Major Sponsors
IBEW Local 876, The Cottages at Martin Lake, E&M Design Solutions, American Classic, Ge**er Federal Credit Union, Nieboer Electric, SR Industries LLC, Wolverine Special Tool Inc., White & Associates, Oosting & Burt Associates LLC, Greer Law Office, PC, Brandt Electric LLC, Mellema Nursery, Shoreline Insurance, RE/MAX River Valley, Five Star Real Estate, Harbor Hospice, Miles Automotive, David M. Byrne and Newaygo Plumbing.
2025 Support Sponsors
The Flower Shack, Scott Meats, Hi-Lite Graphics Inc., Brew Works, Phil Currie, Currie Auction Services, Sounds “R” Us and Tia Drilling
We also wish to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the many volunteers who gave their time and talent to make this milestone event such a success. “It takes a community,” said Pam Zuchowski and Amy Drilling, Co-Chairs of this year’s Gathering of Friends. “And what an amazing community we have.”
