Local cancer support group hosting fundraising gala at Best Western

WASILLA — Just Us Girls, or J.U.G.S. for short is hosting their second annual fundraising gala at the Best Western Lake Lucille Inn Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. The public is invited to come and eat, drink, and have a “roaring good time.”

The theme for this year’s event centers on the “The Great Gatsby.” Attendees are encouraged to dress for the part in whatever 1920’s style outfit they can put together so they can party like it’s the Prohibition.

“Everybody’s going be decked out in their flapper outfits, their 20’s outfits,” Just Us Girls Founder and Executive Director Lynn Nordland said.

All the good times will be for a good cause. Proceeds from the gala go toward the efforts of Just Us Girls, a local nonprofit organization that supports men and women across the Valley who have been diagnosed with cancer.

This is the premier event of the year for the homegrown support group. Funds raised go directly to their efforts to support locals diagnosed with cancer, including monthly events, workshops, and support groups.

The group originally centered on local women and their families but as it continued to grow, they formed groups for men as well.

The second annual J.U.G.S. gala, brought to you by Seven North, will be the premier fundraising and social event in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley this year.

“It’s gonna be huge,” Nordland said.

Nordland was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer three years ago. After her diagnosis, she set out to create and connect more resources for local women experiencing the various stages of cancer and taxing treatments.

She wanted to offer fun ways to take a break from all of that and provide a safe outlet to have fun among people going through similar journeys.

As Nordland navigates through her own treatment, she continues her work to help as many Valley residents with cancer as she can with plenty of support from volunteers and greater community.

Nordland now has a team filled with doctors, teachers, receptionists, friends all dedicated to turning JUGS into an official non-profit organization, pooling together their skills, resources and most perhaps most importantly, their time.

“I see it’s really growing, I really do,” Nordland said. “I’ve got the best support.”

There are seven members currently on the board. Nordland said they’re always looking for additional members and volunteers.

The gala runs from 6 to 11 p.m. Tickets bought ahead of time are $60 and it’s $70 at the door.

Dinner, dancing, entertainment, and cash bar provided. Get ready for games, raffles a silent auction and a night of fun at The Great Gatsby Gala!

For more information, call 907-631-8810, email lynnnordland@yahoo.com, or search “Just Us Girls” on Facebook.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com