Every year Clarkston residents open their hearts, their time and their pocket books to Lighthouse of Oakland County.
This year, Clarkston residents Jerry and Carolyn Hemphill will also open their home to host the 5th Annual Open Your Heart to Lighthouse. The yearly event is set for Feb. 9 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and is co-chaired by Tom and Tami Lowrie.
‘The party will be a casual atmosphere,? said Carolyn Hemphill. ‘This is a great chance to meet and greet other people and find out all about Lighthouse.?
The Hemphills became involved with Lighthouse almost a year ago. At last year’s party, hosted by Fred and Sheila Ritter of Springfield Township, the couple was approached about the 2006 event.
‘We just felt Lighthouse was something we wanted to be involved with,? explained Carolyn. ‘There are so many high profile charities available, but this is not one of them. I really felt this one was sincerely selfless.
‘This is a local charity that I think really reaches out to help everyone they can, and they aren’t high profile about it.?
‘Lighthouse has seen a 20 percent increase in requests for help with food, utilities and housing needs form this time last year. Not only are we seeing low-income families, but now we are seeing families who previously had a stable job, good income and own their own home,? said Emily Nadeau, emergency services executive director. ‘With the economy doing poorly and many big businesses down-sizing, families are facing foreclosures, unable to pay tax bills and higher heating bills.?
Tickets may be purchased in advance for this year’s ‘Open Your Heart to Lighthouse? for $100 and are available through Feb. 9. Please call 248-335-1832 for more information.
To make a donation to ‘Open Your Heart to Lighthouse,? please contact Sandy Wilton, Special Events Manager at 248-920-6000, ext. 2123 or by e-mail at swilton@lighthouseoakland.org.