HOUGHTON LAKE — North Central Area Credit Union (NCACU) is proud to announce the return of Superhero September, a monthlong fundraising initiative supporting three Children’s Assessment Centers across Michigan. Since launching the program locally in 2018, NCACU has raised more than $100,000 to help children heal and find hope after abuse.
The initiative began in Phoenix, Arizona, where a law enforcement officer used a superhero toy to build trust with a severely abused child. That act of compassion gave the child the courage to testify against his abuser and inspired officers to collect superhero-themed toys for children in assessment centers. NCACU adopted the mission in 2018 as part of its “People Helping People” philosophy and has since expanded the program to include three events supporting centers within its service area.
“Superheroes represent strength, bravery and hope — qualities every child should feel,” said Tracy Wilson, vice president of marketing and communication for NCACU. “Through this program, we raise essential funds for the centers that provide prevention, treatment and assistance in the prosecution of child abuse. We spread a message of hope for children and support for their families. The beauty of Superhero September is that small donations can make a huge impact.”
All NCACU branches will be decorated with superhero themes throughout September, and members will be invited to donate at each location. The credit union will host multiple family-friendly fundraising events across the region, with proceeds benefiting each center directly. Sponsorships are designed to keep donations local — every dollar raised in a sponsor’s service area supports that area’s center.
“We do the work, but our sponsors get to be the hero,” Wilson added.
The first event is a free Superhero Kickoff Concert supporting the CAN Council of Arenac County on Wednesday, Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. at the Standish Historical Depot. Bryan and Gary Dixon will perform as Elvis and Frank Sinatra impersonators. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Goodwill donations will be accepted, and hot dogs and popcorn will be sold. A 50/50 and bucket raffle will also be held.
The Superhero September Golf Outing will support the Kent County Children’s Assessment Center on Thursday, Sept. 11 at Thornapple Pointe Golf Club in Grand Rapids. Registration information is available here.
The Super Main Event, supporting the Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center, will be held Saturday, Sept. 20 at Hanson Hills in Grayling. Activities include a cornhole tournament, superhero 5K and kids’ fun run, games, face painting, a touch-a-truck safety event featuring EMS, police and fire vehicles, a Frank Sinatra impersonator concert by Gary Dixon, and cars from the Michigan Competition Corvette Club.
A limited number of sponsorships are still available. Businesses interested in participating should contact Tracy Wilson at (989) 910-5130.
