Each spring and fall, we host a series of Regional Convenings, previously known as Listening Sessions. These virtual gatherings are an opportunity for nonprofit, government, and tribal leaders to share community successes and challenges directly with the Foundation and with each other. The insights we come away with at the Foundation help shape our understanding of what’s most important across the state.  

I find my joy unfolds in the chat dialogue of these virtual sessions. That’s where the connections begin. A child care worker in Kotzebue shares contact information with a tribal administrator in Utqiaġvik. Someone from Prince of Wales Island needs support writing a grant, and someone from Juneau offers to help. Phone numbers are exchanged, advice and resources are shared. 

This is what Alaska is good at: helping each other. Saying, “I’ve done what you’re trying to do. Let me give you a hand.” 

Often, we don’t know if someone needs help until we listen to them. Regional Convenings offer a forum for people to listen to and hear each other. One by one, leaders from communities in a region describe the wins they’ve experienced and the challenges their organizations face. In our role as a neutral convener, the Foundation provides a gathering place for attendees to have their voices heard, but the value of a Regional Convening lies in people listening to and learning from one another. 

Watching people from across a region find ways to collaborate and support each other is a great reminder that we don’t have to work alone. The physical distance and geographic barriers between communities across the state can sometimes feel isolating — but when we work together, we shrink that distance between us. St. Paul Island and Nome are two very different communities, separated by over 500 miles. But representatives from both places shared concerns about ensuring the grantmaking in their communities is impactful. During these convenings, the similarities in our challenges and hopes become clear. We see how solutions in one place might work in another. 

Our next series of Regional Convenings will take place on September 28. Nonprofit, tribal, government, and community leaders are invited to come together virtually and share wins, challenges, and ideas. Mark your calendar, then join the call as we put the Alaska tradition of helping each other into action. 

Thanks for all you do. 

Gretchen Guess 
President and CEO 

*The date of the Fall Regional Convening has been updated since publication.