Dear Alaskans,  

I continue to closely monitor the ripple effects of the federal funding freezes, unfreezes, cuts, court cases and the uncertainty they have created across the state. Alaska is not alone in this struggle, but we certainly face outsized impacts. In a state where nonprofits and Tribes are major employers and economic drivers, the anxiety is acute. Additionally, the state budget is in deficit. We know Alaska has some big decisions ahead — delays in funding and lost funding will have very real impacts on urgent projects and necessary programs.  

If you’re comfortable sharing the impacts you’re facing, consider completing the Real-Time Consequences survey fielded by The Foraker Group. They are an important source of information for the delegation, funders, and other stakeholders. 

I want to emphasize that Rasmuson Foundation is here to help. As a private family foundation, our grantmaking programs are unaffected, and we continue to accept applications for them. Our Tier 1 grant, one of our most popular funding opportunities, makes regular awards throughout the year. We encourage eligible organizations to apply. 

We are also committed to being present in communities across Alaska, convening, connecting, and problem-solving with those doing the work. Join one of my virtual regional Listening Sessions, coming up the week of March 24. These are opportunities for me and our staff to hear directly from you about what is going on with your organization and community and suggest ways we can support you. Registration is required, and we ask that you limit participation to one person per organization so we can hear from as many organizations as possible. 

We will also be at the following.  

Heritage & Cultural Tourism Conference in Fairbanks March 25-27. 

Foraker Leadership Summit in Anchorage April 14-15.

Tribal Administrators Association Annual Symposium in Anchorage April 22-24. 

Our staff members are looking forward to meeting with you, sharing insights, and exploring solutions.

I believe in our ability as Alaskans to be resourceful and resilient.  

Thank you for all you do,

P.S. Track federal actions that could impact Alaska and receive updates from The Foraker Group here.