Congratulations to our "Outstanding Professional of the Year" Award Recipients
April 21, 2026
I am very excited to share some wonderful news with you all. At this year’s Full Lives Conference, two of our own were honored with the prestigious “Outstanding Professional of the Year” award in the categories of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health. This recognition celebrates people who demonstrate exceptional commitment, innovation, and person-centered support in the fields of developmental disabilities, behavioral health, and community services.
Please join me in congratulating Jacob Schaffer and Nathan Harris on this incredible achievement!
Jacob Shaffer
Intensive Supports Resident Manager, Outstanding Professional of the Year in the field of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services
Jacob has been with Hope for over 20 years in our Kenai region. That kind of commitment says a lot on its own, but it’s how he’s shown up in those years that really stands out. Jacob builds relationships that are real. The people he supports know they can count on him. He listens. He notices the small things. He respects preferences, even when it takes extra time or creativity to honor them. He’s also someone who stays steady when things get tough. Challenging moments don’t seem to shake him—he leans in, stays calm, and works toward solutions without losing patience or perspective. Families trust him. Teammates rely on him. And new staff learn from him. Jacob shows up because he believes people deserve to live lives that feel full and self-directed. You see that in the way he celebrates progress, encourages independence, and helps people stay connected to their communities in ways that matter to them.
Nathan Harris
Behavior Analyst, Outstanding Professional of the Year in the field of Severe Mental Illness Services
Nathan has been with Hope since 2022 working as a member of Hope’s behavior support and is a true embodiment of person-centered support. He shows us every day what it really means to meet someone where they are. He has a way of slowing things down, listening closely, and making sure the person in front of him feels seen—not just supported, but understood. That kind of presence matters, especially for people who have been told “no” too many times or who carry doubt from past experiences. One of the most powerful examples of Nathan’s work is in employment support. He has helped people in getting jobs, keeping them, and starting to see themselves differently. Feeling capable. Feeling valued. Nathan also brings a thoughtful approach to his team. In situations where there are a lot of voices, a lot of opinions, and sometimes a lot of stress, he helps bring the focus back to the person at the center. He asks good questions, shares information carefully, and helps teams move forward without losing sight of what matters most. Behind the scenes, he’s also helping people navigate housing, benefits, and systems that can be overwhelming on a good day.
Each year, the Full Lives Conference brings together people from the disability services field—Direct Support Professionals, advocates, care coordinators, and so many others—who are all working toward better systems and stronger supports. To have Nathan and Jacob recognized in that space is beyond words! It reflects the kind of work happening here at Hope every day. We are incredibly proud to have them on our team and grateful for the passion, integrity, and talent they bring to their work every day.
Please join us in celebrating Nathan and Jacob for this well-deserved recognition!
With gratitude,
Michele Girault
National Volunteer Week 2026
April 20, 2026
It’s National Volunteer Week, and Hope is grateful for all the incredible people who give of their time and talents to serve communities across our state!
Volunteers play a huge role in carrying out not only Hope’s mission but the work of nonprofits everywhere. From supporting fundraising events and donation drives to helping with yardwork, home repairs, community clean-up projects, transportation, hospital care, peer support, reading to children, visiting seniors—every act of service matters.
To everyone who gives back in ways big and small—thank you!
Happy Hope Anniversary, John Waller
April 15, 2026
Join us in celebrating John Waller’s 10-year anniversary with Hope!
John serves as our Revenue Cycle Director, in which he oversees and helps ensure our systems and processes support the people we serve in the most effective ways possible.
When asked what has kept him at Hope for 10 years, John shared that it’s the meaningful relationships with coworkers, the strong work/life balance, the opportunity to lead an amazing team, the consistent support from his supervisor, “and so much more.” What drives John most is knowing his work helps people access the support they need to live their best lives. With a background as a DSP and program supervisor, he said, “I know how important it is for our frontline workers to have strong support behind the scenes so they can focus on providing the best care possible for the individuals we serve.”
Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with his wife and four children, along with their dog, Shadow. As a family, they enjoy playing games and swimming. John also volunteers with his church’s children’s ministry, is a volunteer youth basketball coach, and he plays wheelchair basketball as often as he can.
His supervisor, Tom, shared, “John has continued to amaze me with his exemplary customer service and heart to serve. John has always worked hard on behalf of internal and external stakeholders, making not only Hope but our community a better place. I am very grateful that he continues to share his immense talent with Hope, and I wish him all the best on his 10-year anniversary!"
Thank you, John, for 10 years of leadership and service to Hope and to the people and families we serve!
Outlaw Country Sing-Along Brunch
April 14, 2026
This weekend was our Outlaw Country Brunch, and the day kicked off with cowboy hats, boots, and bandanas, the best in country music, a little boot scootin’ and two steppin', and a whole lot of singing!
A tip of the hat to the staff at 907 Alehouse & Grill for hosting this event! They really made everyone feel welcome and outdid themselves with the delicious brunch!
We’re already counting down to our next Sing-Along Brunch on May 16 . . . Stay tuned because we’re going to continue to LET THE MUSIC PLAY!
Personal Financial Budgeting
April 3, 2026
Personal budgeting is more than a financial exercise. It can reduce stress and help you feel more in control of your life. At its core, a budget is simply a plan for how you will spend and save your money each month. When approached with the right mindset, budgeting becomes less about restriction and more about intention.
A thoughtful budget creates freedom. It allows you to meet your needs, prepare for unexpected expenses, and direct your resources toward what matters most to you. Identifying your priorities and aligning your spending with your goals allows you to shift from reacting to your finances to actively influencing them.
Budgeting itself is straightforward. Begin by estimating your monthly income, then listing your expenses — both fixed costs like housing and utilities, and variable ones like groceries and entertainment. This step often reveals patterns and helps you see where small changes can make a big difference over time. Then, track your spending throughout the month to stay aligned with your plan. You might discover spending “leaks,” uncover habits you want to change, or find extra funds to put into savings.
Consistency is what transforms budgeting from a task into a habit. Setting realistic expectations, automating savings, and regularly reviewing your plan can make the process easier to sustain. It’s also important to build flexibility into your budget. Life changes, expenses fluctuate, and your financial goals will evolve. A budget that adapts with you is far more powerful than one that is rigid or unrealistic.
Over time, the benefits go beyond your bank account. Budgeting can reduce financial anxiety, improve your ability to manage bills and debt, and help you prepare for emergencies. It also creates space for future goals—whether that’s building an emergency fund, planning a vacation, or investing in long-term security. Each small, consistent step contributes to a stronger financial foundation and a greater sense of well-being. When you understand where your money is going, you gain the ability to decide where it should go next, which can be one of the most empowering changes you make for your overall wellness.
Popular Budgeting Techniques
- 50/30/20 Method: Allocate 50% of income to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings or debt repayment.
- Zero-Based Budgeting: Assign every dollar a specific purpose so income - expenses = zero.
- Pay Yourself First: Prioritize savings before paying other expenses.
- Envelope System: Use cash divided into categories (like groceries or personal spending); spending stops when the envelope is empty.
- Budgeting Apps: Use apps (e.g. Goodbudget, PocketGuard, EveryDollar, Rocket Money, and Wallet) or bank tools to automatically track spending, pay bills, and transfer savings.
Autism Awareness Month 2026
April 1, 2026
April is Autism Awareness Month. Today, April 2, is also World Autism Awareness Day. This is an opportunity for all of us to learn and help create a more supportive and inclusive community. Many people show support by wearing blue.
This month, the Alaska Autism Resource Center (AARC) is hosting its annual Autism Acceptance & Awareness Walk. Learn more and register for this free, family-friendly event at https://runsignup.com/Race/AK/Anchorage/AlaskaMovesForAutism.
We encourage you to make time this April to learn, reflect, and consider ways you can support autism acceptance—whether through education, conversation, or participation in events like the AARC walk.
Stories of Hope | National Month of Hope
March 31, 2026
Each year, the National Month of Hope invites us to pause, reflect, and recommit ourselves to the belief that—even in uncertain times—people can uplift one another and imagine and take action to create a future that is more compassionate and more resilient than the present moment.
This year, that message feels especially urgent.
Across our state, our nation, and our world, communities are navigating challenges that test our endurance and our sense of connection. Economic pressures continue to strain families. Conflicts abroad weigh heavily on our collective conscience. Here at home, we see the ongoing need to strengthen behavioral health supports, protect vulnerable Alaskans, and ensure that every person—regardless of ability, background, or circumstance—has the opportunity to live with dignity and independence.
Yet even in the midst of these realities, hope is not abstract. It is active. It is practiced. It comes alive through the choices we make every day.
Hope looks like neighbors showing up for one another during difficult times.
Hope looks like Direct Support Professionals who continue to provide daily teaching and support.
Hope looks like communities advocating for accessible homes, stronger systems, and modernized policies to address the needs of today.
Hope looks like people refusing to give in to despair but rather taking action to help others rise.
This month reminds us that hope is not naïve—it is necessary. It is the foundation for every meaningful change we have ever achieved. And it is the force that keeps us moving forward when the world feels heavy.
As we observe the National Month of Hope, may we each find ways to embody it: through kindness, through advocacy, through service, through listening, and through the courage to demand better. Our community has always been strengthened when we choose to believe in one another. That remains true now more than ever.
Thank you for being part of the work that turns hope into action.
With gratitude,
Michele Girault
Executive Director
Commissioned Art Piece
March 26, 2026
We’re proud to share this commissioned piece created for the Richard L. and Diane M. Block Foundation!
Made by over a dozen Hope Studios artists, it features a mix of materials like crayons, painted fabric, wood, beads, and more, then sealed in resin. Our Hope Studios team had the honor of presenting and installing it last week. Huge thanks to the Block Foundation for their continued support of Hope Studios—we’re so grateful!
Purple Day for Epilepsy 2026
March 26, 2026
Today is Purple Day for Epilepsy, a condition affecting more than 65 million people worldwide.
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that often begins in childhood and can cause seizures. Despite how common it is, it’s still widely misunderstood, which can make everyday social situations more challenging for those living with it.
Purple Day is about changing that. It’s a chance to learn, to spread understanding, and to remind everyone affected by epilepsy that they are not alone.
Key Campaign 2026
March 26, 2026
Thank you to everyone who participated and supported another year of Key Campaign!
We're grateful to the Key Coalition of Alaska and those who traveled to Juneau to rally and meet with legislators, and to everyone who took part virtually by calling, emailing, and engaging from your own communities. Every action—big or small—helps this collective advocacy effort and work toward positive change for Alaskans who experience disabilities and their families.
Happy Hope Anniversary, Haydie Duhaylungsod
March 20, 2026
Join us in celebrating Haydie Duhaylungsod’s recent 10-year anniversary with Hope!
Haydie began at Hope as a live-in Resident Manager in Kodiak, and now, she is an Intensive Supports Resident Manager for one of our Assisted Living Homes in Anchorage.
What Haydie enjoys most about her work is the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. Building genuine connections and helping people grow in independence has been especially rewarding for her. She values the uniqueness of every person she supports and believes everyone has strengths and abilities that can shine with the right guidance and encouragement.
In 2017, Haydie received Hope’s Circle of Hope Award, an honor given to employees who embody Hope’s mission and values through their actions, attitude, and dedication. Nominated by her peers, this recognition reflects the meaningful difference she makes every day.
Outside of work, Haydie describes herself as a homebody who loves warm, cozy moments and staying connected with longtime friends. Some of her simply joys include reading, learning about history, trying new recipes and baking, and traveling. She is also a devoted caregiver to her senior parents, supporting their medical needs and enjoying the time she gets to spend with them as they travel between Alaska and the Philippines.
Thank you, Haydie, for dedicating a decade of your time, care, and attention to the Hope community. We’re grateful for the difference you make every day!
Art Night: Polymer Clay Jewelry
March 16
Creativity was in full swing at our latest Art Night!
Everyone got to learn how to make their own polymer clay earrings and keychains, and experimented with colors, shapes, and techniques demonstrated by our wonderful instructor, Dylan.
When asked what they enjoyed most about the class, here is what everyone shared:
🗨️ I really enjoyed the ability to learn a new medium and skill but also having the freedom to experiment and design a project.
🗨️Learning something new.
🗨️A skill I never thought I'd have.
🗨️A reminder that mistakes can still be pretty.
🗨️Dylan did a great job showing new techniques and gave a lot of freedom to be creative.
🗨️Our instructor Dylan was delightful.
🗨️The freestyle of making something.
We’re so glad our community is enjoying these opportunities to learn and create—and we are so grateful to UAA's Center for Human Development for the grant support that is making them possible!
Key Campaign Priorities 2026
March 17, 2026
Hope and the Key Coalition of Alaska are in Juneau this week advocating for the priorities of the Key Campaign 2026. Even if you’re not in Juneau, you can still be part of the effort from wherever you are!
We encourage you to contact your legislator and let them know you support the priorities of the Key Campaign. A quick email or phone call can make a real difference.
Find your legislator and contact information at https://akleg.gov/.
Thank you for helping amplify this advocacy effort across the state!
Board Leadership & Development
March 9, 2026
We’re so grateful to the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust for investing in nonprofit leadership through their Board Leadership and Development program. Last week, 33 organizations in the Pacific Northwest—including Hope—participated in their robust program. Strong institutions are led by strong boards, and we are thankful for the Trust’s commitment to nonprofits like Hope in order to more effectively serve our communities.
Happy Hope Anniversary, Darren Thayer
March 6, 2026
Please join us in celebrating Darren Thayer on his recent 10-year anniversary with Hope!
Over the past decade, Darren has held several roles with Hope, including Direct Support Professional, Resident Manager, and now Intensive Support Resident Manager. In his current role, Darren provides oversight of an Assisted Living Home, ensuring the health, safety, and dignity of people who experience challenging behaviors and intensive support needs while supervising a team of direct support professionals.
When asked what has kept Darren at Hope for 10 years, he said, “I have very much enjoyed working with the different individuals I have work with, while at Hope, and those individuals are the reason I am here and enjoy my job.” He shared that the joy, determination, self-reliance, happiness, and friendships created through daily interactions are what make his work meaningful and fulfilling.
Outside of work, Darren enjoys spending time outdoors, taking long drives, being with family, and photography.
Thank you Darren for your commitment to Hope and the people and families you support every day! We’re grateful for all you do and honored to celebrate this milestone with you.
Registration is Open for Summer Camp 2026
March 5, 2026
We're excited to announce that registration is now open for Hope’s 2026 Community Engagement Summer Camp!
Learn more and apply at www.hopealaska.org/summercamp.
Our inclusive summer camp welcomes children, teens, and young adults ages 9–21, including campers with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. From June 8 to July 31, campers will spend eight exciting weeks (Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm) enjoying field trips, group adventures, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences throughout the Anchorage community.
Community outings will include The Alaska Zoo, Anchorage Museum, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Williams Reindeer Farm, Flying Horse Equestrian Center, LLC, Anchorage Trolley Tours, The Anchorage Fire Department, The Musk Ox Farm, Alaska Native Heritage Center, Alaska Botanical Garden, Campbell Creek Science Center, Eagle River Nature Center, Hope's Willow Ranch, and more.
Campers will enjoy creative activities such as tie-dyeing, designing custom camp gear, creating ceramics to take home, building garden fairy houses, making sensory bottles, and designing costumes and animal masks. They will participate in scavenger hunts, kayaking and water sports, hiking and sightseeing, hands-on science experiments, track car races, puppet shows, and team-building challenges. Throughout the summer, they’ll also enjoy social events and celebrations such as barbecues, dance parties, bowling, talent shows, and an end-of-camp karaoke celebration.
Apply today! Limited financial aid may be available and will be awarded based on demonstrated need and the availability of funding. The deadline for all financial aid requests is May 27.
Are you or someone you know looking for a great summer job?
Hope is currently hiring Community Engagement Specialists for our Summer Camp! This year's Camp will take place June 8 – July 31, Monday - Friday, 9am – 5pm + staff will receive paid training leading up to Camp. We are looking for caring, enthusiastic people to help create a full, inclusive camp experience for the youth in our community.
Learn more and apply at www.hopealaska.org/summercamp/careers.
Women's History Month
March 1
March is Women's History Month and this year's theme is "Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future."
Hope’s story has been shaped by women from the very beginning. Our organization was founded by a visionary woman and continues to be led by women today—from our Executive Director and Board President to a frontline workforce made up largely of women. We are also honored to serve and partner with many women across Alaska who experience disabilities.
We are very proud to honor all the women who have shaped Hope’s past, those leading and advocating in the present, and the many women whose voices, talents, and lived experiences will be part of the future.
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
March 1
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month—as well as Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Month.
The spirit of this month is about recognizing the many strengths and wonderful contributions of people who experience disabilities. It's also about breaking down barriers and advocating for a world where every . . . single . . . person . . . has equal opportunities to lead a full, meaningful life.
Stories of Hope | NEW Hard of Hearing Navigator Program
February 27, 2026
We’re excited to introduce Hope’s new Hard of Hearing Navigator Program, a long-needed step toward improving access for Alaskans who experience hearing loss. Across the state, an estimated 60,000 people experience some degree of hearing loss, and many face barriers that go far beyond technology. Communication gaps, limited services in rural areas, and systems that don’t always talk to each other can make everyday tasks exhausting. For many people, support exists – but finding it, understanding it, and accessing it can feel overwhelming.
This program was created to change that.
At the heart of the program is a dedicated Navigator who will serve as a guide, connector, and advocate for deaf and hard of hearing people and their families. The Navigator will help connect people to available resources—from healthcare and education to housing and employment—while bridging gaps between agencies that often operate in silos. Sometimes that support looks like helping a family navigate early intervention options after a new diagnosis. Other times, it means working with employers, landlords, or service providers to remove communication barriers and create more inclusive environments.
Who the Program Serves and Why it Matters
The Hard of Hearing Navigator Program is designed to serve people and systems alike. Direct recipients include low-income adults, seniors, and students who need specialized communication tools but face financial or geographic barriers. At the same time, the program supports agencies, organizations, and service providers—such as senior centers, schools, government offices, vocational counselors, and healthcare workers—by offering training and guidance to improve accessibility and ADA compliance. The goal is not just to respond to needs as they arise, but to strengthen the systems people rely on every day.
Thanks to increased state funding, the program will also expand outreach and training efforts statewide, especially in rural and remote communities. The Navigator will help coordinate care across medical, educational, and social service systems so individuals with complex needs don’t fall through the cracks. Support also includes employment and housing advocacy, early involvement resources for families, and training for employers and service providers on effective communication, current assistive technology, and best practices for working with individuals who experience hearing loss. When needed, the program provides access to essential tools such as videophones, caption phones, TTYs, and computers for those who don’t have them at home. The goal is simple but powerful: move from a reactive system to a proactive, navigator-led approach that increases independence, access, and connection statewide.
In its first year, we hope the Hard of Hearing Navigator Program will reduce service gaps, strengthen workforce integration, improve rural equity, and help Hard of Hearing Alaskans feel seen, supported, and empowered. We’re thrilled to see where this work will lead and grateful to be building it alongside our community.
We are Hiring
We’re currently seeking the right person to step into the Hard of Hearing Navigator role. Along with fluency in sign language, experience in case management or navigation services, and a strong understanding of Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Alaska Native cultures, we’re looking for someone who is a true bridge builder. This role calls for empathy, creativity, and collaboration—someone who can navigate both the hearing and Deaf/Hard of Hearing worlds with care, cultural humility, and confidence, especially given Alaska’s unique geographic challenges.
How You Can Help
Community support is essential to the success of this program. You can help by sharing Hope’s job postings and program information on social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn, especially within local and regional community groups. Every share helps connect someone to support they may not even know exists.
With the right Navigator in place and the community’s support behind it, we believe this program will create lasting change across the state. We’re proud to take this step forward—and even more excited to see where the work will lead.
Shining a Light on Seasonal Affective Disorder
February 24, 2026
Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) is not simply the “winter blues.” It is a recurring, clinically recognized form of depression linked to seasonal changes in daylight. It is most common during the winter months, when daylight hours drop sharply, and symptoms usually improve in the spring as daylight increases.
S.A.D. is largely the body’s physiological response to reduced exposure to daylight. Shorter days can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm and alter key brain chemicals that regulate mood and sleep. During darker months, the body tends to produce more melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep, and less serotonin, which supports mood stability. Reduced sunlight can also lead to lower levels of vitamin D. The combination of these imbalances can contribute to depressive symptoms, fatigue, and sleep disturbance.
Symptoms often resemble those of depression and may include persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, low energy or fatigue, difficulty concentrating, lower emotional resilience, disrupted sleep, memory challenges, changes in appetite, feelings of isolation, social withdrawal, and reduced motivation or ability to manage daily activities.
Effective treatments are available and can be used alone or in combination, depending on individual needs. Light exposure is a cornerstone of treatment. Increasing time spent in natural daylight or using medically recommended light therapy can help regulate the body’s internal clock and improve mood. Vitamin D supplementation may be helpful for some people, particularly when levels are low, though guidance from a healthcare provider is important. Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral approaches, can help people experiencing S.A.D. develop coping strategies and address seasonal thought patterns. Antidepressant medications may also be recommended in some cases. Lifestyle strategies such as regular physical activity, maintaining social connections, and structured daily routines can further support well-being.
If seasonal changes consistently affect your mood, sleep, or ability to function, it is important to speak with a healthcare or mental health provider. A professional can help determine whether symptoms meet criteria for S.A.D., rule out other conditions, and recommend personalized treatment options.
Strategies for Seasonal Wellness
- Prioritize daily movement, such as walking, stretching, and light workouts
- Spend time outdoors to increase light exposure
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and calming nighttime routine
- Schedule regular check-ins with friends and loved ones
- Eat regular meals and be mindful of cravings
- Set small, manageable goals and keep routines simple
- Break tasks into steps and use reminders or lists
- Monitor your symptoms closely and seek professional help when needed
Galentine's Brunch
February 17, 2026
What an unforgettable first Sing-a-Long Brunch in Anchorage—Galentine’s edition! 💖
We packed the house at 907 Alehouse & Grill, and wow—everyone showed up ready to have a good time. We sang our hearts out to everything from Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus to Journey and Neil Diamond. DJ Lefty and Nicky T kept the energy and vibes high, guests received goodie bags, and the staff at 907 Alehouse really outdid themselves with the delicious brunch buffet.
It was the perfect launch for Anchorage’s newest can’t-miss event. Start making plans now to join us on March 8 for our next Spring edition—“Let the Sun Shine” Brunch. Something tells us tickets won’t last long.
Get yours now at www.hopealaska.org/akbrunchevents.
Night to Shine 2026
February 16, 2026
Thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered, and attended Friday’s Night to Shine events across the state! The evening was so joyful and memorable, made possible by the Tim Tebow Foundation and the generosity and enthusiasm of so many people in our community.
Special thanks to King Tech High School for their wonderful support in helping participants in Anchorage get ready for the event. They were highlighted in this Anchorage Daily News article.
We'll be celebrating these memories for many years to come!
Now Hiring for Summer Camp
February 12, 2026
Now Hiring—Community Engagement Specialists for Summer Camp!
This year's Camp will take place June 8 – July 31, Monday - Friday, 9am – 5pm. All Camp staff will receive paid training May 19 – June 5.
Learn more and apply at www.hopealaska.org/summercamp/careers.
We are looking for caring, enthusiastic people to help create a full, inclusive camp experience for children, teens, and young adults who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities. As a Community Engagement Specialist, you’ll lead and support a variety of Camp activities, including recreation, creative arts, outdoor adventures, community excursions, and skill-building experiences—while helping campers build confidence, friendships, and lifelong memories.
Apply now and spend your summer making a meaningful difference!
Art Night: Needle-Felting
February 10, 2026
Last Friday’s Art Night was a creative hit!
We had five participants who, with the guidance from our guest instructor Judy Potts, created beautiful needle-felted portraits of Arctic cotton blossoms. One of the highlights of the evening was that everyone got to design a second felt piece in their own style, and Judy helped frame each finished piece, making them even more special!
The group shared how much they enjoyed learning a new art skill and how inspiring it was to create something with other people. They appreciated the enthusiasm, conversation, and sense of camaraderie, and described the evening as a fun and engaging way to spend time with friends and fellow art lovers.
Thank you to all who joined us! If you'd like to sign up for our next Art Night, simply visit www.hopealaska.org/artnights/signup.
And as always, thank you to UAA Center for Human Development for the grant support that makes these classes possible!
