Fit for giving
For many families, charitable giving is a special tradition that adds fulfillment and meaning to the holidays. It is the time of year we focus outward on the needs of others, and try to make the world a little brighter for those less fortunate – especially those hit hardest in an economic downturn.
“Never has the need for community activism been greater,” said Joanne Phillips, director of development, Camp Fire USA Alaska Council.“Families today are facing ever-increasing challenges, and nonprofits are being called upon to absorb the demand.”
During this annual “season of giving,” consider making donations to organizations that serve Alaska youth. In addition to holiday-specific programs that distribute toys and other gifts in December,many nonprofits offer year-round programs that help kids develop happier, healthier and more productive lifestyles.
LocalWish Lists
ALASKA CHILDREN’S SERVICES
Programs help youth make positive choices, build healthy lifestyles and overcome tremendous challenges.
Wish list: financial donations, winter coats,waterproof winter boots, sturdy sleds, and recreational equipment – basketballs, volleyballs, footballs, athletic shoes for ages 6 to 18.
www.akchild.org or (907) 346-2101
BLAZESPORTS ALASKA AFTERSCHOOL YOUTH PROGRAM
A division of Challenge Alaska, BlazeSports provides school-age and pre-K youth with physical disabilities the chance to have fun, be part of a team, and find their passion through sports.
Wish list: financial donations for adaptive sports equipment, maintenance tools and equipment.
www.challengealaska.org or (907) 344-7270
BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
Their mission is to help kids in Alaska reach their potential through professionally-supported, one-to-one mentoring relationships.
Wish list: Male and female “Bigs,” financial donations and gift certificates for matches to enjoy sporting events, recreational or outdoor activities together.
www.bigbrothersbigsistersalaska.org or 278-2621
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
Clubhouses and other nationallyrecognize programs provide youth with a safe place to learn and grow, develop ongoing relationships with caring adults and participate in life enhancing, character development experiences that help them make good choices about health and lifestyle.
Wish list: jump ropes, bicycles, bike helmets, golf clubs, snowshoes, fishing poles, scarves for flag football and healthy snacks such as granola bars.
www.bgcalaska.org or (907) 248-5437
CAMP FIRE USA
The Alaska Council serves more than 5,000 youth each year in a variety of programs designed to help individuals discover the best in themselves and others in a fun and safe environment.
Wish list: life jackets, outdoor equipment (tents, backpacks), skateboards, cross-country skis, poles and boots, as well as snowshoes and services from specialists.
www.campfireak.org or (907) 279-3551
OPERATION SANTA CLAUS
For children of rural Alaska, Santa’s sleigh has come to resemble the Air National Guard’s C-130 Hercules aircraft or the Army National Guard’s UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. Santa,Mrs. Claus and a team of elves spread the holiday spirit as soon as the aircraft land and cargo is unloaded.
Donors can call Jan Myers, State Family Programs Director, at (907) 428-6680, and arrange for pickup of new (preferred) items including snow pants and outerwear.
ACTIVE GIFT IDEAS
Bicycles, roller blades and other sporting goods are a safe bet for kids of all ages. Giant activity balls, hula hoops, jump ropes and obstacle course kits are both fun and exhausting. Proper outdoor clothing gear is also in great demand, especially for the age-old winter activity that kids never outgrow – sledding.
Healthy Futures is an Alaska-based, grassroots
movement empowering Alaska’s youth to
lead more physically active lifestyles.Find out more
and get involved at www.healthyfuturesak.org.
