a unitē Mental Health & Wellness Fundraiser

Decks to Docks

Join us for a fun, meaningful, and community-powered experience that adds even more celebration to the Bridge! Help support local mental health services, connect with friends, and be part of something that makes a real difference.

Prizes:

Large pizza from Ambassador, $25 Gift Certificate from Gino's, Free Interior Anti-Bacterial Detailing or External Detailing from Sayen's Auto, Interior & Exterior Vehicle Detail from Keweenaw Chevrolet, Portage Lake Cabins Gift Certificate, and $1000 Cash

Bridgefest Card Run

Join us during Houghton’s Bridgefest for Decks to Docks, a unique adventure by boat or car—supporting the mental health of our community.

Participants will visit locally sponsored stops to collect digital playing cards using the ACES App. Build your best hand as you cruise the Houghton Canal by boat or enjoy the drive to scenic destinations. You can buy one extra card through the third stop and track your progress on the leaderboard in real-time.

After completing your route, meet us at the Bridgefest Center Stage for prize announcements. (You do not need to be present to win.)

All proceeds benefit unitē Mental Health & Wellness, supporting our Houghton family services expansion and helping open our new L’Anse office—growing access to care across the region.

This is more than a fundraiser—it's a chance to unite for mental health, uplift local businesses, and enjoy a day of adventure, community, and purpose.

Let’s make waves that matter.

Event Details:

Saturday, June 14, 2025 - Bridgefest Weekend

11 AM – 4 PM (Info/Help Desk at 10 AM, Portage Lake Cabins)

$50/hand suggested donation| $20/additional card

Special Challenge Coin Alert!
Visit Black Ice Comics and Books and Prince's Point to receive an exclusive Decks to Docks Challenge Coin—a unique collectible designed just for this event! Available while supplies last.

How to Participate

1. Register
Sign up https://aces-links.acespokerrun.com/?target=/acesevent/J0txrWIuJ6P8b7mFM6VD ahead of time to secure your spot! Not working? We’ll be at Portage Lake Cabins from 10–11 AM and downtown docks all day to help!

2. Start Your Journey
Launch your boat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard (you can even choose to drive) start visiting stops at your own pace. When you open your app you will see the gps locations for each stop.
You can visit the stops in any order! Grab a balloon at your first stop, tie it on your boat and let everybody know you are part of Decks for Docks.

3. Scan QR Codes at Each Stop
Each stop has a unique QR code. Scan it to collect your virtual playing card through the app.
You’ll need a total of 5 cards to complete your hand! You want a better chance? Just buy a card before your 3rd stop!

4. Troubleshooting?
If a stop is full, float and chill, or head to the next one and circle back later.
You have until 4:00 PM to hit all stops!

5. Submit Your Hand
The app tracks your cards. No need to check in — we’ve got your info when you scan!

6. Prize Pick-Up
We’ll announce winners at 4:00 PM at Bridgefest Center Stage.
You don’t have to be present — but why not stop by, grab a beer, and celebrate?

Need help?
Find our team under the tent downtown — we’re here for you!

FAQs

Q: What is Decks to Docks?
A: Decks to Docks is a boating (or driving) fundraiser supporting the expansion of unite Mental Health and Wellness — both the Family location and the new L’Anse office. Our mission is to improve mental health access in our community.
Participants will visit various waterfront businesses by following GPS locations in the app. At each stop, scan the business's QR code to receive a new card in your app. Check the leaderboard to see how you rank for the $1,000 grand prize. Additional prizes and raffles will take place at 4:00 PM.

Q: When and where is the event?
A:

Date: June 14th (during Bridgefest)
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Portage Lake Waterfront, Houghton, MI
All stops are listed in the app with GPS guidance.

Q: Who can attend?
A: Everyone is welcome! The event is family-friendly and open to all ages and abilities. If you’re not comfortable bringing children inside businesses, no worries — QR codes will be accessible outside.

Q: What should we be aware of?
A:

Bridgefest may bring increased boat traffic.
A no-wake zone will be in effect from 2:00–4:00 PM for the ski show.
If you choose to drink, please do so responsibly. Don’t drink and drive your boat.

Q: Do I need to register?
A: Yes. Register through the ACES app using a QR code. A $50+/hand donation is suggested.
Need help registering? We’ll be at Portage Lake Cabins at 10:00 AM with support and free donuts!

Q: Is there a cost to attend?
A: The event is by donation. We suggest $50+ per hand — it’s for a great cause!

Q: Will food be available?
A: Absolutely! Look in the description of each stop for details on what that stop has available. Some will have hot dogs, water, etc.

Also, local food trucks and vendors will be at Houghton Beach for Bridgefest. Come hungry and enjoy the festivities!

Q: What happens if it rains?
A: It’s a rain-or-shine event. Some activities may be adjusted or relocated as needed. Follow us on social media for updates.

Q: Who can I contact for more info?
A:

info@unitewellness.org

Stop by Portage Lake Cabins on morning of event for information or last minute registration

Q: Do I have to be present at 4:00 PM to win a prize?
A: No. Prizes will be announced at Bridgefest Center Stage at 4:00 PM, but you do not need to be present. We’ll contact you using the info provided in the app.
That said, we’d love to see you there — grab a beer in the Beer Garden or stay for dinner and pick up your prize in person!

Q: What if my registration isn’t working?
A: Don’t worry — we’ve got you!
We’ll be at Portage Lake Cabins from 10:00–11:00 AM and under the tent at the downtown docks all day to help with anything you need.

Q: What order should I visit the stops in?
A: Any order you like! Each stop has a QR code — scan it to receive your next card. Enjoy the journey and collect them all.

Q: What if a dock is full when I arrive?
A: No problem! You have until 4:00 PM to make all your stops. Float nearby, visit another stop, or come back later. Take your time and enjoy the day!

Q: What if I want another card?

A: No problem, if your hand isn’t looking good you have till the 3rd stop to buy another card.