Friend,

I’m very proud of how my team worked quickly and creatively to make sure we’re staying connected with the community throughout this public health and economic crisis.

Our volunteers quickly started making thousands of wellness calls in our communities to share information and resources to keep folks safe, and our Facebook Live town halls have connected thousands of people with experts to help them get through this scary, uncertain time and hear about new federal policy designed to give lifelines to businesses and unemployed Alaskans.

When we first started town halls last month, we didn’t know how long this was going to last. Our topics have varied based on the issues you’ve brought up. We’ve had experts come on to share updates on public health, distance learning, homelessness, resources for the newly unemployed and small business owners, and many more. We certainly didn’t expect that we would do 11 (and counting) since March 15. But we saw a need and got to work, using a little Alaskan resourcefulness. We will continue these conversations to help Alaskans stay informed and connected throughout the “unbunkering” phases as well.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look from one of our first town halls with Shirley Pittz, a childhood expert, before the hunker down orders began. She shared great information about how parents can talk with children about the pandemic in age-appropriate ways, great tips for working at home with children, and more. We met in my living room and filmed with a smartphone on a makeshift tripod made with a Kaladi Brothers Coffee cup.
 

I want to honor the vulnerability and strength of the Facebook Live guests we’ve had on. One moment that stands out to me most was when Austin Otos of Ketchikan shared his story about filing for unemployment after being laid off due to the pandemic. When he talked about how he had to get over his own pride to ask for help, I know he inspired others to reach out for help too.

We are doing our best in these uncertain times to stay connected and keep Alaskans safe and informed. You can check out our past town halls on our Facebook page.

And if there are resources that you think would be helpful, or if you have any ideas for future town hall topics, consider taking our Town Hall survey today.

Let’s continue to honor our frontline workers in grocery stores, ports, post offices, hospitals, and shelters by doing our part making safe and healthy choices.

Gratefully,

Alyse