Stories of Hope

Hi Communications,

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month—a time to celebrate the contributions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and advocate for policies and programs that support inclusion and security.

Right now, that advocacy is more necessary and urgent than it has been in a long time.

The House of Representatives in D.C has narrowly passed a budget resolution that proposes at least $880 billion in cuts, including significant cuts targeting Medicaid. Though the exact details are uncertain, we know that these cuts would have devastating consequences, particularly for Hope and the people and families who choose our services.

Medicaid enables Hope to provide Home and Community-Based Services that allow people with disabilities to live independently, receive care in their community of choice, and prevent out-of-state institutionalization. Medicaid enables Hope to provide Home and Community-Based Services, supporting people with disabilities to live independently, receive care in their community of choice, and prevent out-of-state institutionalization. In addition, Medicaid provides health care coverage for the majority of Alaskans with disabilities. If these proposed reductions go through, they will almost certainly lead to longer waiting lists, fewer services, and significant disruptions in care for Alaskans who depend on them. The State of Alaska is not in a fiscal position to make up the difference if the Federal match is cut. 

The time to act is now.

As the budget process moves to the Senate, our voices must be heard. Lawmakers need to understand how these cuts would fundamentally undermine the well-being and independence of people with disabilities.

Strong advocacy is needed in order to make an impact. More than 30,000 messages have already been sent to legislators through advocacy tools, and more than 4,500 non-profits from all 50 states sent an open letter to lawmakers emphasizing the essential role of charitable organizations, including those providing disability services.

Now, we need to build on that momentum.

Ways you can get involved right away:

1. Send a message to Lawmakers: Join the movement and urge our lawmakers to reject these harmful cuts.
2. Email or call your federal representative: In just a few minutes, you can send an email or make a phone call to local lawmakers through ANCOR’s advocacy platform. Messages can be sent multiple times—even daily—to ensure our voices are heard.
3. Write an op-ed or letter to the editor: Use ANCOR's easy-to-use op-ed template or letter to the editor template to share your thoughts about the need to protect Medicaid funding.
4. Share your story: Personal stories make a huge difference. ANCOR is compiling stories and photos from Alaskans that will be delivered to our congressional delegation in Washington, DC. If Medicaid has impacted your life or the life of someone you love, now is the time to speak up.
5. Join coalition efforts: Hope has signed on to a national letter as part of a broad coalition of Medicaid advocates, and we’re also working with AADD and Alaskans Together for Medicaid to send a joint letter highlighting the policy concerns specific to our state.
6. Spread the word: Follow Hope or ANCOR on Facebook and like and share the posts related to this advocacy. Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to also take action. The more people who reach out to Congress, the stronger our collective voice becomes.

This is not just about numbers. This is about real people whose independence, access to care, and quality of life are at stake.

This Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, please join us in honoring the voices and contributions of people with I/DD by advocating for their right to have access to the services they need.

Your advocacy matters.

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

March 2025

March is a month of awareness! Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Month—a time to advocate for inclusion, accessibility, and support for people in these communities.

💙 Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month brings attention to the varied and unique experiences of people with developmental disabilities and is a reminder of the importance of inclusion, empowerment, and opportunities for people with disabilities to live full, meaningful lives.

💚 Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month highlights the strength and resilience of those living with CP while advocating for better resources, accessibility, and understanding.

🧠 TBI Awareness Month sheds light on the impact of traumatic brain injuries, the journey of recovery, and the need for continued research and support.

Women's History Month

March 2025

March is Women’s History Month, and this year's theme is “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations." This theme celebrates the collective strength and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership, shaping the minds and futures of all generations.

Our organization stands as a testament to this legacy. Hope was founded by a visionary woman, is currently led by a female Executive Director, has a female Board President, and is supported by a workforce where the majority of Direct Support Professionals are women. Thank you to all the women of Hope—past, present, and future—who have shaped our communities, driven social change, and championed disability rights!

Great Big HeART Show

February 1 - April 5, 2025

Middle Way Café is hosting their 12th annual Great Big HeART Show—a celebration of creativity and community! This exhibit runs until April 5 and features a collection of local artwork, including from Hope Studios, inspired by the theme of the heart. Fifty percent of all art sales directly benefit Hope Studios’ programs.

First Friday Art Show

March 7, 2025

Join us for Hope Studios' First Friday Event at SubZero Microlounge on March 7, featuring an art exhibit by the talented local artists from Hope Studios, showcasing bright and colorful floral and animal-themed artwork. The evening will include live piano music by MJ Riemann and complimentary appetizers, with additional food and drinks available for purchase. This is also a great opportunity to meet the artists in person, connect with fellow art lovers, and experience the energy of our creative community. Whether you're an art collector or simply appreciate beautiful work, this is a night you won’t want to miss!

Key Campaign

March 18-19, 2025

Key Coalition of Alaska is a non-profit, statewide advocacy organization of people with disabilities and their families, friends and other partner organizations. The goal of the Key Coalition is to advocate for community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. Key Coalition advocates for independent living, equality and disability civil rights, and access to quality mental and physical health care services. Advocates and self-advocates all over the state work year round to educate local lawmakers and community members about issues facing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Local chapters of the Key Coalition meet to plan both state and local advocacy efforts.

Stone Soup Group's Parent Conference

March 19-21, 2025

The Stone Soup Group Parent Conference is an annual event designed to support parents, caregivers, and professionals working with children and youth who experience disabilities. The conference offers keynote speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities focused on empowering families, building community connections, and promoting inclusivity.

Anchorage Health Fair

March 25, 2025

Join us for the upcoming Community Health Fair sponsored by Alaska Health Fair and hosted by Hope Community Resources. This event provides a valuable opportunity for both Hope employees and the public to engage in proactive health management. A health fair offers a variety of services designed to support overall well-being, including health education from local healthcare providers, free blood pressure screenings, affordable, and high-quality blood tests.

Full Lives Conference

April 10-11, 2025

The UAA Center for Human Development's Alaska Training Cooperative, in collaboration with the State of Alaska Senior and Disability Services, the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority, and the Stone Soup Group, is pleased to present the 24th annual Full Lives Conference for direct services professionals and care coordinators.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Events

Join our Deaf Supports team for one or more upcoming events designed to empower and connect the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community in Alaska. Whether you're looking to network with others or simply have a good time, our upcoming events offer something for everyone. Stay tuned for details on event dates, locations, and how to participate.

EasyPark now offers Free Metered Parking for Disabled Drivers in Anchorage

EasyPark recently announced a new ordinance to improve parking accessibility for people with disabilities in Anchorage. Key changes include:

• Free Mobility Parking Permits: Mobility parking permits will now be issued free of charge to qualified individuals, eliminating financial barriers for those in need.
• Free Street Meter Parking: Individuals with a state-issued disability placard or license plate with parking privileges can park at any street meter for free, with the same benefit of a more extended stay at handicapped designated on-street spaces.
• Increased Fines for Violations: Fines for unauthorized use of handicapped parking meter spaces will be significantly raised to deter misuse and ensure compliance.

Take Care of YOU: Make the most of winter with indoor hobbies

​Instead of waiting for the snow to melt and the sunlight to return, make the most of your time indoors by learning a new skill or picking up a new hobby. Stay active, stay creative, and make the most of the season—spring will be here before we know it!

Pick.Click.Give.

Remember to apply for your PFD now through March 31. And when you file, please consider donating to Hope through Pick.Click.Give. Your generosity helps us provide essential services, supports, and hope to the people we support and their families.

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, Anchorage & Kenai
• Intensive Supports Associate, Anchorage
• Intensive Supports Resident Manager, Anchorage
• Mental Health Clinician, Anchorage
• Behavioral Health Technician, Anchorage
• Community Engagement Specialist, Anchorage
• Hope Studios Liaison, Anchorage