The Student Nurses Association (SNA) at Northern Michigan University is hosting its annual Spread the Love Charity Gala this Friday, February 21st, at Ore Dock Brewing Company in downtown Marquette. This fundraising event aims to support Camp New Day, a summer camp dedicated to providing a positive, restorative experience for children with incarcerated family members. We spoke with SNA Treasurer Payton Reilly to find out more.
The SNA is committed to community service, participating in blood drives, charity initiatives, and local outreach programs. The Spread the Love Gala is an event that the association is working to reestablish after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Last year’s gala raised funds for Bay Cliff Health Camp, and this year, after a vote among SNA members, Camp New Day was selected as the beneficiary. The camp provides a much-needed escape for children with incarcerated parents, allowing them to experience a week of carefree summer fun while receiving emotional support and mentorship.
Attendees can expect an evening filled with music from a local DJ, a silent auction, and snacks. “We’ll have a popcorn machine, and there will be a special beer available, with a portion of sales going directly to Camp New Day,” Reilly shared.
Community service is a core mission of the SNA, and events like this allow members to contribute in meaningful ways. “Even though we’re all busy nursing students, we still make time to come together and do something bigger than ourselves,” Reilly reflected.
Listen to Kurt Hauswirth's interview with Payton here:
Tickets will be available at the door and can be purchased via cash, Venmo, or PayPal. Doors open at 7:00 PM, and the event runs until 11:00 PM.
For those interested in learning more about the Student Nurses Association or attending future events, the group maintains an active presence on Instagram (@nmu_sna) and holds meetings every other Monday at NMU.
