Courtesy photo Kristin Benhauser, left, presents a check on behalf of Alcona Domestic Engineers, to Valerie Williams, executive director of Hope Shores Alliance. Jan Mooradian, right, served on the planning committee for the holiday luncheon and auction which raised the funds.

The Alcona Domestic Engineers (ADE) recently presented Hope Shores Alliance, the local domestic violence organization, with a donation of more than $1,000, raised through an auction following a holiday luncheon at Hubbard Lake Connect in December.

The women’s group is a continuation of an extension group, previously supported by Michigan State University. It was started more than 20 years ago and in collaboration with groups in Hubbard Lake and Glennie held an annual Christmas luncheon at Lost Lake Woods. During that event each group held a “tin can raffle” to raise money for various projects.

The last group luncheon was held in 2019 and many women in the area spoke of the event fondly, wondering if it would resume. Last summer members of ADE decided it was time to give it a try and with the help of many, coordinated a successful event. Participants were invited to bring appetizers and/or desserts to add to the luncheon menu and voted on the recipient of the auction profits. With 45 women in attendance a total of $1,065 was raised and donated to Hope