Educators hosting fundraiser for MY House Friday at Government Peak Chalet

PALMER — There are high school reunions, anniversary dinners, and annual competitions. However, the new event on the block is the Gathering of Educators of Mat-Su, which starts Friday at 2 p.m. at the Government Peak Chalet near Palmer.

This is a first of its kind event with retired Mat-Su Borough teachers, staff, and longtime employees coming together to raise support for the MY House foundation. The event is about reminiscing in the good ole days while connecting with different generations of educators. Much like the poster says, especially for those former Mat-Su Borough employees, “Bring your stories, old photos, and musical instruments.”

Organizers say it’s a great opportunity for educators from yesteryear to come out and reconnect with those who worked on the school front.

The proceeds from this event will be going to MY House for the homeless youth in the valley. Tickets can be purchased for $25 online at the MY House Matsu website.

“To provide safe shelter for homeless youth with a goal of connecting kids to a network of caring individuals and agencies able to assist them in becoming self-sufficient.” from the MY House website about its mission.

This event may be for the former teachers and staff of the Mat-Su, but the ones truly affected are the homeless youth. According to the MY House website, the organization estimates more than 700 local youth that are without homes. With tickets being $25, the event organizers hope to provide entertainment for those who attend, while providing money to My House for the youth.

According to its website, MY House offers food, clothing, shower and laundry services, employment services, public health care, mediation services, help with legal issues and support and referral for mental health and substance abuse treatment, among the many services the organization provides.

Longtime Valley educators Joe Irvine, Barb Nord, Jim Brazeau and Carol Ryan-Aube are among those who are helping make the event possible.

“Let’s have some fun and raise some money to help our homeless youth.,” Irvine wrote in a post to the GEMS Facebook page.

The event starts Friday at 2 p.m. and continues through 6 p.m. at the Government Peak Chalet located off of Palmer Fishhook Rd. Tickets are available at MYHOUSEMATSU.org, at My House in Wasilla, or at the event.

Tickets are $25, and the cover for hors d'oeuvres, drinks and fun. Beer will be available to purchase.