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Stories of Hope

January 2024 Newsletter

First National Bank Alaska

Centennial Scholarship Fund


Greetings!


We are delighted to introduce the First National Bank Alaska Centennial Scholarship Fund. An opportunity to expand services to unserved and underserved Alaskans, this fund is made possible through the generous support of First National Bank Alaska and a testament to our commitment to inclusivity.


Thousands of Alaskans with disabilities lack traditional funding sources and are unable to participate in recreational and therapeutic programs, community-centered events, and life-enriching activities. Through this fund, we hope to bridge the gap. The First National Bank Alaska Centennial Scholarship Fund will provide scholarship opportunities to ensure that individuals and families in need of services and support are not limited by financial barriers.


Our vision is clear – to continually grow this fund and utilize it to offer equal opportunities for people with disabilities to engage and participate in their community, allowing them to pursue personal growth, new social and personal connections, and a sense of accomplishment.


Your one-time or monthly contribution to the First National Bank Alaska Centennial Scholarship Fund has the power to open doors to new opportunities for your fellow community members. Together we can create a more inclusive and supportive society where everyone has the chance to lead a full and meaningful life.


Join us in this initiative and make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals and families across our great state. Your generosity is a testament to the strength of our shared vision, collective voice, and commitment to serving and uplifting our community.


To support this initiative and invest in equal access for all, donate to the First National Bank Alaska Centennial Scholarship Fund below or contact us directly.


Thank you for your support!

Invest in Equal Access

Our Vision for 2024

Our vision for this year is to continue pursuing a world where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities live and thrive in their community. Through inclusive communities, impactful partnerships, innovative programs, joyful events, sustainability, and advocacy, we will continue to break down barriers and develop a society that values diversity and inclusion.


Click below to explore our Vision Board and see more details on the future we're working towards. Visit our website to learn more about our mission, vision, and values.

Key Campaign

February 19 - 23


Each year, Key Coalition hosts 'Key Campaign' where Hope and other members from across the state advocate for an established platform and address needs, gaps and barriers. You're invited to participate in 2024's Key Campaign virtual visits with local legislators, sharing issues that affect you and your family. After registration you will be contacted by a board member of the Key Coalition with detailed instructions on how to participate via zoom.

Register Here

East Anchorage Book Club Podcast

An Interview with Michele Girault


Listen to this episode of the East Anchorage Book Club podcast, in which our Executive Director, Michele Girault is interviewed by Andrew Gray. Their insightful conversation goes into the dynamics of disability advocacy, the ever-evolving needs and desires of people in the disability community, and Hope's 55-year journey championing the rights of people with disabilities. They also chat about Michele's role as the President of local animal welfare non-profit, Friends of Pets.

Listen to Podcast Episode

Take Care of YOU: Gut Health


Check out our two-part Wellness Bulletins on gut health, where we share how the digestive system works, what it’s responsible for, and some common myths and misconceptions. And for part two, we share some simple ways to improve and maintain gut health, which entails both dietary and lifestyle practices.

View Gut Health Bulletin, Part I
View Gut Health Bulletin, Part II

Happy 25-year anniversary with Hope 🎉


This month marks a special milestone as we honor Alma Nelson for 25 years of service with Hope! Alma (pictured with her grandson) serves as an Intensive Supports Resident Manager; she lives full-time in the Assisted Living Home where she provides exceptional care to the people she supports. She got her start in the field working at an elderly facility in Florida before moving to Alaska and joining Hope.


Alma is a respectful, reliable, and knowledgeable Resident Manager. She encourages the people she supports to try new things, and she empowers them to discover new interests, abilities, and talents. She finds great joy in witnessing them accomplish their goals, which she considers one of the most rewarding parts of her work. She embodies the roles of teacher, mentor, and coach, and believes in the principle of treating people the way you want to be treated, which includes being inclusive, compassionate, and trustworthy. In 2021, following in her footsteps with a heart for service, Alma’s daughter Dakota also joined our team as an Intensive Supports Associate.



Career Opportunities at Hope


We are actively looking for passionate people to join our team. If you or someone you know would be interested in one of the following careers, please apply below or reach out to our Recruiting team at 907-433-1730.


  • Recruiter, Anchorage (full-time)
  • Lead Direct Support Professional, Anchorage (full-time)
  • Lead Medical Support Specialist, Anchorage (full-time)
  • Lead RN Nurse, Anchorage (full-time)
  • Intensive Supports Associate, Anchorage (part-time)
  • Office Support Specialist, Anchorage (full-time)
  • Resident Manager, Matsu (part-time)
Apply Here

Black History Month


February is Black History Month, and this year's theme is 'African Americans and the Arts,' exploring the key influence African Americans have had in the fields of "visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression." Now and all year, we appreciate the history, achievements, and influence of the Black community, including the 5.4 million Black Americans living with a disability. 

Do you have questions, comments or feedback on our newsletter? Do you have suggestions or stories you would like to see in future newsletters? Send them to our Communications Specialist, Karen Fritsche, at communications@hopealaska.org.

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