A Simple Idea That Turned Into Lasting Impact
For ten years, a simple idea has quietly made a meaningful difference for grieving children and families across West Michigan.
Now, that effort continues with this year’s Harbor Hospice Purse Party, set for Sunday, May 3, giving the community another opportunity to come together and be part of something meaningful.
What started as a hopeful search for a way to help has grown into an event that continues to bring people together year after year. The Harbor Hospice Purse Party is more than a fundraiser. It is a reflection of a community choosing to show up, support one another, and make sure no child has to navigate grief alone.
“When event organizer Ashley Spencer first learned about Camp Courage, she knew she wanted to help. She Googled fundraising ideas, and that is where she got the idea for a Purse Party,” she shared. “Reaching the 10 year milestone feels like proof that simple ideas can have a big impact. My small and hopeful idea has turned into something meaningful and lasting. The fact that year after year people chose to donate, show up, and support such a great cause speaks volumes about our local community.”
Auctioneer Nicole Popps and Event Founder Ashley Spencer at last years event
Image courtesy of Harbor Hospice
Supporting Children Through Grief
That impact reaches far beyond the event itself.
The funds raised support Camp Courage, a program that provides children ages 6 to 14 with a safe and supportive space to process grief. For many campers, it is their first time facing loss, often accompanied by feelings of isolation. At camp, they find something different. They find connection, understanding, and the reassurance that they are not alone.
Through guided conversations, shared activities, and the simple experience of being around others who understand, campers begin to build confidence, friendships, and lasting memories. Families gain peace of mind knowing their children are cared for by trained counselors and compassionate volunteers who are committed to their emotional well being.
This year’s camp will take place June 19 through June 21 at Pioneer Trails Camp, continuing that mission for another group of children who need it most.
An Event That Blends Fun With Purpose
The Purse Party plays a direct role in making that possible.
With a fundraising goal of $2,500 this year and more than $30,000 already raised over the life of the event, organizers are focused on continuing that momentum while welcoming as many people as possible. The event is open to the public, and you do not need to be a member of the White Lake Eagles to attend.
And while the mission is serious, the experience is anything but quiet.
People come for the purses first. From one of a kind designs to unexpected finds, the selection has become a highlight in its own right. Add in the energy of auctioneer Nicole Popps, known for bringing humor and excitement to the room, and the event quickly turns into something people look forward to each year.
Still, what keeps people coming back is not just what they take home.
It is the understanding that every bid, every laugh, and every moment of participation contributes to something bigger. Attendees are not just part of an auction. They are part of an experience with purpose.
Attendees browse purses during last year’s Harbor Hospice Purse Party, supporting Camp Courage.
Image courtesy of Harbor Hospice
New Ways to Participate This Year
This year brings a few new ways to be part of that impact.
An online auction is now open, allowing supporters to participate even if they cannot attend in person. Community members can browse and bid on a wide selection of purses, from trendy styles to timeless classics, all while supporting Camp Courage.
Bidding is open through May 3 and can be accessed here:
https://events.readysetauction.com/harborhospicefoundation/purseparty
There will also be a new Fund A Need opportunity, giving attendees a more direct and personal way to support specific aspects of Camp Courage.
Among the standout items this year is a one of a kind, handmade purse created by a local artisan using horween leather sourced from Chicago. The bag took more than 10 hours to craft and will only be available during the live auction, making it a unique piece tied directly to the community it supports. See images of bag below:
Images courtesy of Harbor Hospice
How to Get Involved
Whether attending in person, bidding online, or supporting in another way, there are several ways for the community to be part of this year’s event.
Harbor Hospice continues to seek volunteers, especially overnight camp counselors who can help create a safe and supportive environment for campers. Donations also remain a vital part of sustaining the program and expanding its reach.
At its core, the Purse Party is about more than handbags or even fundraising totals.
It is about what happens when a community chooses to show up for children who are navigating some of the hardest moments of their lives.
With this year’s event just ahead, that choice is once again an opportunity to make a difference.
Event Information
Harbor Hospice Purse Party
Sunday, May 3 at 1 PM
White Lake Eagles
1204 S Lake St, Whitehall, MI
This event is free and open to the public. You do not need to be a member of the White Lake Eagles to attend.
Attendees can browse and bid on a wide selection of purses while supporting Camp Courage, Harbor Hospice’s grief support camp for children and teens.
An online auction is also available for those who cannot attend in person, with bidding open through May 3.
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