Stories of Hope

August 2024 Newsletter

Celebrating 40 Years of Leadership

Communications,

This month, Hope Community Resources, Inc. proudly celebrates the 40-year anniversary of our Executive Director, Michele Girault, who has dedicated her career to advancing the mission of our organization and improving the lives of people who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Michele’s journey with Hope began in 1984 when she arrived in Alaska from Colorado for what she thought would be a summer job as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). Little did she know, that experience would spark a lifelong passion for both Alaska and serving people with disabilities, and she has since devoted four decades to championing people's rights, dignity, inclusion, individuality, self-advocacy, and opportunities to live full, meaningful lives. Her kindness and leadership have broken down barriers and changed people's lives for the better.

Michele’s career has been marked by her belief that small, persistent efforts can lead to big improvements in human dignity and quality of life. Her approach to leadership is rooted in kindness, advocacy, and empowerment, leading to transformative impact on both the organization and our broader community.

Reflecting on her journey, Michele shared, “I have loved being part of the stories of bringing people out of institutional settings into communities of choice, and witnessing the growth and joy in that process. Throughout my career, I have tried to look through a lens of abundance when scarcity is all around us. I have literally 'grown up' with many of the people Hope supports, and these relationships have created a deep commitment to staying the course."

Michele’s influence has inspired countless others within Hope and the broader community to take action for the greater good. Her legacy of courage, kindness, and empowerment has driven others to continue the important work that has defined Hope since its founding in 1968. The profound impact she has made is reflected in the heartfelt words of those who have had the privilege to work alongside her.

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Hope Disco Gala

Saturday, September 21

Get ready to boogie at our Disco Gala and enjoy a night of groovy tunes, mellow décor, and funky fun as we celebrate and support our community in true disco style.

Get your ticket

DSP Appreciation Week

September 9 - 14

We are excited to announce an upcoming celebration – Direct Support Professional (DSP) Appreciation Week! From September 9th to 14th, we'll be honoring the incredible work of our 354 direct support employees here at Hope. Join us the week of September 9th to unite in gratitude and recognition for the DSPs at Hope and across the nation who deserve year-round recognition for their hard work and endeavors.

Show your appreciation for DSPs

Deaf Awareness Week

September 22 - 29

International Week of Deaf People is celebrated annually the last full week of September by national and regional associations of the Deaf, local communities, and individuals worldwide. Hope's Deaf Supports team is hosting a variety of events and activities September 22-29.

Stay tuned for more details and updates as the event approaches by visiting our website and following us on social media.

Friendship & Dating Course

September 30 - October 30

This September/October, Hope is facilitating a 'Friendships and Dating' course for young adults (ages 18-25). The session will include topics such as personal boundaries, feelings, types of relationships, communication, personal safety, sexual health, gender differences, social activities, the dating process, and more.

View course details

Community Engagement Summer Camp

Our Community Engagement Summer Camp was a huge success! Thanks to generous funding from Alaska Community Foundation, we were able to serve 35 youth! From art and music to sports and outdoor adventures, everyone had an amazing time and came away with many great memories. Enjoy some of the photos below, and stay tuned for a full summary of the Camp coming soon—follow us on social media for updates.

Take Care of YOU: Positivity Attracts Positivity

Positive thinking can be a force for change. Take a moment to read about the power of positivity and how it can shape your reality.

View Wellness Bulletins

Community Impact Awards

Now - September 16

If Hope has made a meaningful difference in your life or someone you know, please support us by voting for Hope for ADN's Community Impact Award, which honors non-profits making a difference in Alaska. Anyone can vote once per day now through September 16. Your support means the world!

Vote for Alaska's non-profits

Pick.Click.Give.

Ends August 31

If you were waiting until August to make a final decision about your #PickClickGive donation, we would be grateful if you chose to pledge to Hope. Add or change your pledge by clicking the button below, the select the green ‘Add or change your Pick.Click.Give. donation’ button. Even a small donation goes a long way in making a positive impact in our community.

Pick.Click.Give. to Hope

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 Hiring team at 907-433-1730.

Direct Support Professionals, all regions
Intensive Supports Associate, Anchorage
Resident Manager, Anchorage
Health Services Supervisor, Anchorage
Mental Health Clinician, Anchorage
Behavioral Health Technician, Anchorage
Community Support Supervisor, Kenai
Accounting Clerk, Anchorage
Payroll Specialist, Anchorage
Front Desk Administrative Assistant, Anchorage
Maintenance Specialist II, Anchorage

Apply here

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.