If you’re reading this issue of the North Wind on the day it was released, you’re probably figuring out your plans for the weekend right now. Perhaps you’re hoping to catch up on homework. Maybe you’re planning to stop by a party or two. But there’s something else you could do over the next few days that you might not have considered: namely, participating in the 12th annual NMU Circle K 24-Hour Service Project. Beginning at 6:00 p.m. on September 13 and continuing throughout the weekend, this 24-Hour Service Project promises to be the biggest one yet.

And that’s not just hyperbole, either. In addition to helping out at traditional stops like the Moosewood Nature Center, and Bay Cliff Health Camp, participants will visit the Beacon House for the first time in 24-Hour history.

“I thought it would be good to include the Beacon House because they’re another organization in Marquette that needs some help. They don’t have a lot of employees, but they provide service to many people,” event organizer Sara Hujar explained.

During her first few weeks at NMU, Hujar (a senior currently dual-majoring in Marketing/Entertainment and Sports Promotion) never thought that Circle K would become a major part of her life. “[In] my freshman year, I just attended meetings with my roommate, not looking to get involved…and, then, I just kind of got sucked in,” she said.

Whether you’re already a member of Circle K or if you’re wondering if the club is right for you, the 24-Hour Service Project is a great way to get involved. Over the course of the weekend, participants will help out at local organizations like the Salvation Army, Moosewood Nature Center, the Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum, and the Beacon House until they reach the final stop: Bay Cliff Health Camp. There, they’ll cap the day of service off with a beachside bonfire.

Does the prospect of visiting so many organizations in one day make your head spin? If so, don’t worry – it’s all under control. According to NMU senior, psychology major, and Circle K member Danae Cowell, the event is “really well-organized, and they’ve been doing this a long time, so there’s a schedule set up. And if you ever have any questions or are feeling stressful, there are plenty of people to ask.”

While altruism is the main purpose behind the 24-Hour Service Project, it’s important to note that the event serves as a massive, weekend-long social event as well.

“Last year, I brought two of my friends with me and they really liked it,” Cowell said. “I’m going to try to get more to come with me this year, because it’s a really great experience.” And as Hujar puts it: “if you’re open-minded, you’re going to have a lot of fun doing service projects and meeting new people.” All in all, not a bad way to spend a weekend.

The 24-Hour Service Project starts at 6:00 p.m. on September 13 and ends at 8:00 a.m. on September 15. For more information about the 24-Hour Service Project or Circle K in general, contact Sara Hujar at [email protected] or Anthony Wilson at [email protected].