Stories of Hope

From Exclusion to Inclusion: Why We Walk for Hope

Greetings!

Beginning in 1987, the month of March has been proclaimed “Developmental Disability Awareness Month” across the United States. This year’s theme, A World of Opportunities has been focused on how people can come together to form communities where inclusion and diversity are promoted, while also highlighting the work being done to remove barriers so people with disabilities can thrive.

Prior to statehood, there were few services available in the territory of Alaska for individuals who experienced mental illness or developmental disabilities. At that time, mental illness was considered a crime. People with any sort of mental disability who were unable to care for themselves, or who could not be cared for by a family member or guardian were sent by the federal government to live in Morningside Hospital, a private institution in Oregon. By 1942, more than 2,000 people from Alaska—including very young children—were residing there.

The first Walk for Hope in 1970 was focused on raising funds to “bring the children home” from out-of-state institutions. Thousands walked in support of this initiative and as a result, Hope Community Resources (at the time Hope Cottages) was able to provide housing and supports to children returning to Alaska.

Fifty-five years later, the Walk for Hope has continued as an annual reminder and incentive that we still have work to do. As long as one person with a disability has to wait for services, as long as one child with mental health support needs is sent out of state because there are no services in Alaska, as long as there is insufficient accessible transportation or unaffordable housing, we will continue to walk (and roll) to raise funds to meet those needs.

Please join me in downtown Anchorage on Saturday, May 4^th as we celebrate the progress made throughout the past 55 years, and continue the commitment to create a future where Alaskans with disabilities have full accessibility to the supports and services needed to experience a world of opportunity.

May the 4th be with you!

Michele Girault

Community Engagement Summer Camp

June 3 - August 9, 2024

Hosted by our Community Engagement Center from June 3 - August 9, all community members up to age 20 are welcome to attend. Campers will head out in the Anchorage community for 10 themed weeks of fun and engaging activities, including art, music, sports, wildlife, cultural traditions, outdoor adventures, and more! This camp focuses on social, motor and listening skills, and on creating a fun and educational experience. Financial aid is available for families who demonstrate financial need.

Anchorage Health Fair

April 24, 2024

Sign up for the community health fair sponsored by Alaska Health Fair and hosted by Hope Community Resources. A health fair offers a wealth of health education by local health providers, blood pressure screenings, and high quality, low-cost blood tests. Scheduling an appointment is highly recommend. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments will receive priority.

Intelligent Lives Film Screening

April 29, 2024

Join us for an evening at Bear Tooth Theatrepub, where Hope will present the thought-provoking film, Intelligent Lives. Intelligent Lives stars three pioneering young American adults with intellectual disabilities – Micah, Naieer, and Naomie – who challenge perceptions of intelligence as they navigate high school, college, and the workforce. Academy Award-winning actor and narrator Chris Cooper contextualizes the lives of these central characters through the emotional personal story of his son Jesse, as the film unpacks the shameful and ongoing track record of intelligence testing in the U.S.

Support Hope Studios at The Frozen Flamingo

We are excited to announce that Hope Studios is showcasing artwork and merchandise at The Frozen Flamingo Market, a consignment market open to all Alaskan artists. Everything at our booth is available for sale, and we invite you to visit 3400 Spenard Road, Ste 100, Anchorage and support our talented artists and other local vendors.

Take Care of YOU: National Reading Month

“You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.” In celebration of March being National Reading Month and birthday of the beloved children's author, Dr. Seuss, enjoy our latest Wellness Bulletin on the benefits of reading for personal growth and whole-health, plus a list of national and local literary resources.

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.

• Payroll Specialist, Anchorage (full-time)
• Hiring Specialist, Anchorage (full-time)
• Health Supports Supervisor, Anchorage (full-time)
• Lead RN Nurse, Anchorage (full-time)
• Intensive Supports Associate, Anchorage (full-time)
• Resident Manager, Anchorage (full-time)
• Resident Manager, Matsu (part-time)
• Resident Manager, Kodiak (part-time)
• Intensive Supports Resident Manager, Anchorage
• Travel Direct Support Professionals