Thank you UC San Diego Volunteers
April 7, 2025
Thank you to the great group of students from the University of California San Diego who spent their spring break giving back! They traveled to Alaska for a week of service learning and volunteered for three days with Hope, from collaborating with our artists in Hope Studios to assisting our maintenance team.
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National Month of Hope
April 4, 2025
April is the National Month of Hope, a time to recognize the power of hope to inspire action, connection, and change. Hope begins with us—in every interaction, every role, and every person we serve. This national observance was created to remind us all that hope is powerful…and contagious. When we choose to act with hope, we help others find it too.
Throughout April, we’ll reflect on the four pillars of hope—each one a reminder that hope touches every part of life.
- Hope for Self – Reignite belief in your own purpose, growth, and power.
- Hope for Family – Strengthen and honor the personal connections that keep you grounded.
- Hope for Community – Inspire hope through small acts in your community that make a big difference.
- Hope for the Nation & World – Recognize how your daily efforts contribute to something bigger.

2025 DSP of the Year Awards
April 3, 2025
Autism Awareness Day
April 2, 2025
Light it up Blue for Autism Awareness Day!
World Autism Month
April 1, 2025
What is World Autism Month?
April is World Autism Month, a time dedicated to promoting understanding and acceptance of autism. April 2nd is specially recognized as World Autism Awareness Day. Throughout this month, we encourage discussions on the language and symbolism associated with autism and participation in events that promote wellness and inclusivity.
Autism Awareness Events in April
In honor of World Autism Month, join one or more of the following events to raise awareness and acceptance for Alaskans with Autism Spectrum Disorder, their families, and supporters.
- April 2: Light it up Blue'! Every April, the world comes together to recognize World Autism Month, and on April 2nd—Autism Awareness Day—we invite you to 'Light It Up Blue' to show your support for the autism community! Light It Up Blue is a global initiative that encourages people, businesses, and landmarks to shine blue lights and wear blue in honor of people with autism. By participating, you will help spark conversations, raise awareness, and promote acceptance for autism.
- 💡 Wear Blue – Show your support by dressing in blue and encouraging friends and family to do the same.
- 💡 Light Up Your Space – Change your home or business lights to blue or display blue decorations.
- 💡 Spread Awareness – Share autism facts, stories, and resources on social media using #LightItUpBlue and #AutismAcceptance.
- 💡 Support Autism-Friendly Organizations – Donate, volunteer, or get involved with initiatives that empower people and families with autism.
- April 4: Join us at the Kenai Community Center for a FREE training on Understanding Autism, Neurodiversity, and Challenging Behaviors.
- April 26: The Alaska Autism Resource Center (AARC) is hosting an in-person Walk in Anchorage to raise awareness and acceptance for Autism. The event will feature family-friendly activities, and they will be giving away door prizes donated by the community. Click here for more details and to sign up.
- April 1-30: In an effort to get even more Alaskans involved in World Autism Month, the AARC and Special Education Service Agency (SESA) are also hosting a virtual Walk-a-Thon for the month of April. Click here for more details and to sign up.
This event is free to join and allows you to show your support by walking, rolling, or moving how you choose! You can also order your Walk T-Shirt and are automatically entered to win our Walk-a-thon prize give-aways.
The History of Autism Iconography
Language and the symbols we use have tremendous power in shaping how we view our world and ourselves. Words and symbols can have different meanings for different people, and they can evolve over time. The same symbol may have different meanings for different people. This is also true when it comes to autism and the evolution of how we speak about and represent it. Throughout history, autism iconography has evolved, reflecting a shift toward more respectful, person-centered language and a continued effort to destigmatize autism. The first symbol widely recognized as representing autism was the puzzle piece, designed in the National Autistic Society (NAS) in 1963 to represent the complexity of the condition. Notably, this symbol was created by a non-autistic individual, NAS board member Gerald Gason.
In 1999, The Autism Society of America introduced the puzzle piece ribbon and shifted language toward person-centered language, using terms like "person with autism." The puzzle pattern was brightly colored to signal hope, and the interconnected pieces reflected the diversity of people and families with autism. This symbol came into widespread use when the organization Autism Speaks used them in large nationwide awareness campaigns in the early 2000s. Some people in the autistic community have negative associations with the puzzle piece symbol due to its association with words and phrases like 'puzzling,' 'mysterious,' and 'missing a piece'. Because of this, the iconology evolved again into a rainbow-colored infinity symbol to signify the infinite diversity and possibilities within the autism spectrum.
Beyond the puzzle piece and infinity symbol, other symbols have also been introduced to represent autism, including the butterfly, symbolizing transformation and the beauty of diversity, and the color blue to represent calmness and the need for community-wide acceptance of autism. The "Light It Up Blue" campaign uses the color blue to promote autism awareness and encourage greater understanding and support.
Since the 2010s, there has been a growing movement toward identity-first language, such as referring to someone as an “autistic person” rather than a “person with autism.” Many in the autism community prefer this terminology because it acknowledges autism as an integral part of their identity rather than something separate. This shift reflects a broader acceptance and celebration of neurodiversity, recognizing autism as a natural and fundamental aspect of who someone is.
The concept of neurodiversity has gained significant recognition in recent years. This perspective acknowledges that neurological differences, including autism, are natural variations of the human experience. Rather than viewing these differences as deficits, neurodiversity promotes the idea that they should be respected and valued. The adoption of neurodiversity-friendly language within autism advocacy reflects a commitment to inclusivity and respect for all people.
The Impact of Language and Symbols
Language and symbols play a powerful role in shaping public perceptions and attitudes. The evolution of terminology and iconography in the autism community is more than just a linguistic shift—it represents a cultural movement toward acceptance, respect, and empowerment. When we use respectful, person-centered language, we recognize and value autistic individuals for who they are. Throughout April, we encourage everyone to learn, reflect, and celebrate the uniqueness of every individual. Increasing understanding and inclusivity will make the world a more supportive and accepting place for everyone.
Alaska's disability advocates make a powerful statement at this year's Key Campaign
March 31, 2025
More than 12 advocates attended the 38th annual Key Campaign in Juneau, Alaska, marking a strong return to in-person advocacy since the pandemic. With financial support from the Alaska Mental Health Trust, the Mat-Su Health Foundation and the Governor’s Council the campaign focused on five critical priorities—1) expanding early intervention services, 2) Continuing support to maintain the plan to eradicate wait lists, 3) modernizing guardianship statutes, 4) improving accessibility and funding for public transportation and 5) requiring universal changing spaces in public buildings.
Advocates met with nearly every legislator in the building, sharing personal stories and emphasizing the urgency of change. U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski spoke with Key Campaigners, reaffirming her commitment to Medicaid and community disability services. Senator Cathy Giessel was recognized as this year’s " Gold Key Champion," honoring her dedication to supporting policies/funding that improve the lives of Alaskans with disabilities. The energy was high as attendees rallied on the Capitol steps, amplifying the campaign’s message of unity and disability rights.
The momentum does not stop here—we encourage our community to stay engaged by attending town halls, contacting legislators, and sharing stories. The Key Campaign is an example that when we come together, we make a lasting impact. Let’s keep the momentum going!
Stories of Hope Newsletter
March 31, 2025
You're invited to the 2025Walk & Roll for Hope!
Hope Community Resources, Inc. invites you to our annual Walk & Roll for Hope!The purpose of this annual tradition is to unite our community in support of Alaskans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Join us for this iconic event featuring scenic routes, food and refreshments, live music, and family fun—all while making a meaningful difference in people's lives. This year’s theme, "Hope Starts Here," highlights the importance of keeping children with disabilities and complex medical needs in Alaska rather than being sent out-of-state to institutions. By participating in the Walk, you are helping to create a future where every child can receive the care and support they need right here in Alaska—their home.
What's new for 2025?This year, we're making some exciting changes to the Walk & Roll for Hope for Anchorage participants. For the first time, the event will take place on a Thursday evening instead of the traditional first Saturday in May, allowing participants to enjoy better spring weather. Additionally, we're bringing a new 'Taste of Anchorage' experience to the Walk route! During and after the Walk, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy delicious treats from some of Anchorage’s best local restaurants such as Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse and Spenard Roadhouse. |
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Five ways you can support the Walk✅ Sign up. Register to walk or roll with us in Anchorage and/or Kenai. Walkers ages 18 and older register for $35, walkers ages 11-17 register for $25, and walkers ages 10 and under can register for free. The registration fee helps cover the costs of organizing the event and ensures that more of the funds raised go directly toward supporting Alaskans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. ✅ Donate. Every donation—big or small—helps provide essential care and support for children and adults with disabilities in Alaska. Your contribution will directly fund Hope's program that keeps families together and ensures children receive the services they need close to home. Our goal is to raise a total of $75,000 or more, so every dollar counts. ✅ Fundraise. Take your support a step further by raising funds for the cause. Raise $100 or more and receive a FREE Walk & Roll for Hope t-shirt. Raise $200 or more and receive a commemorative Walk & Roll for Hope hoodie. Raise $300 or more and receive both! Plus, for every $100 you raise by noon on Friday, May 2, you will receive an entry into a drawing for two round-trip tickets to any destination Alaska Airlines flies. View our Fundraising Toolkit for tips on how to maximize your fundraising efforts. ✅ Volunteer. Be part of the team that makes this event possible! We need volunteers to help with event setup, registration, route support, and more. Volunteering is a great way to support our mission, connect with the community, and be part of something meaningful. Respond to this email for more details. ✅ Share. Multiply your impact by encouraging your friends and family to join you. Whether they walk, roll, donate, or cheer from the sidelines, every participant strengthens our community and helps spread awareness about the importance of inclusive services in Alaska.
History of the WalkPrior to Alaska's statehood, people who experienced intellectual or developmental disabilities faced limited services and, in some cases, involuntary institutionalization. By 1942, more than 2,000 Alaskans—including very young children—were living at Morningside Hospital in Oregon, separated from their families, homes, and communities. The first Walk for Hope was a pivotal moment in Alaska’s history, bringing nearly 4,000 people together to advocate for children with disabilities to return home from out-of-state institutions. More than five decades later—while a lot of progress has been made—the Walk for Hope continues as an annual reminder of the ongoing work still to be done. As long as even one person with a disability has to wait for services, as long as one child in need of support is sent out of state due to lack of local resources, and as long as accessibility barriers persist, Hope will continue to walk (and roll) to raise funds to meet those needs. Every step, every roll, and every dollar counts!
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Alaska's Shared Vision 2.0
March 31, 2025
File your PFD by Monday
March 25, 2025
What you need to know about Bird Flu, Influenza, and COVID this season
March 24, 2025
Avian influenza, or bird flu, specifically the H5N1 strain, has been spreading among wild birds, poultry, and even some mammals across multiple states, leading to devastating effects on the poultry industry and significant economic losses. Since early 2024, about 68 human cases of bird flu have been reported. Thus, the CDC says the risk to the general public is low, but experts are keeping a close eye on it since the virus could change and start spreading more easily between people. The U.S. has stockpiled H5N1 vaccines just in case, and Moderna is working on new mRNA vaccines to prepare for any potential outbreaks.
Meanwhile, the 2024-2025 flu season has been severe, with about 41 million cases, 540,000 hospitalizations, and 23,000 deaths so far. Influenza A is the dominant strain this season. Hospitals have seen an increase in complications, particularly among young children, older adults, and people with underlying health conditions. Symptoms like high fever, body aches, fatigue, and persistent cough have been hitting hard. Health officials stress the importance of getting the annual flu shot, which can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization. Even if vaccinated individuals still get the flu, symptoms are typically milder, and recovery is faster. Other preventive measures, such as frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick can also help reduce the spread.
COVID-19 is still around too, with cases and hospitalizations rising from time to time, especially among unvaccinated and high-risk individuals. Health officials are monitoring new variants, and vaccines continue to do a good job of preventing serious illness. Booster shots are highly recommended for older adults and anyone with a weakened immune system.
Staying informed, getting vaccinated, and practicing good hygiene are the best ways to protect yourself and those around you as these viruses continue to circulate.
Debunking Flu Myths
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World Down Syndrome Day
March 21, 2025

Advocates and supporters of Alaskans with disabilities rally at the Capitol
March 20, 2025
Lesko Discovery Center Summer Camp
March 20, 2025
Hope's Summer Camp registration is now open! Apply for your camper to attend Summer Camp and give them a summer of adventure, friendship, and fun.
What is Hope's Summer Camp?
Adventure. Inclusion. Friendship!
Hope’s Summer Camp provides a fun, educational, and inclusive experience for children and young adults (ages 9-20) with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. From June 23 – August 8, campers will enjoy seven weeks of engaging activities and exciting adventures that promote teamwork, social skills, and confidence—all in a supportive environment led by our trained staff.
Each day features trips and outtings throughout the Anchorage community, such as visits to parks, nature trails, and museums. Campers are encouraged to develop independence and make decisions, while receiving support from our staff to ensure a fun and safe experience. Our goal is for every camper to leave with a sense of accomplishment, confidence about their unique strengths, and memories that will last a lifetime!
Camp Fees
- $160 – $200 per week for campers receiving approved Medicaid services with Hope
- $1,008 – $1,455 per week (includes camp fees and hourly service costs) for campers not using waivered services
- Additional fees may apply per week based on activity
- Limited financial aid may be available for families in need
Who Can Join?
Our camp is open to children and young adults ages 9-20, and we welcome campers who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, and mental health challenges. Spaces are limited, so apply today and make summer 2025 one to remember. We look forward to welcoming you and your camper to Hope’s Lesko Discovery Center Summer Camp!
We hope to see you there!
Summer Camp 2025
Weekly Activities

WEEK 1: June 23 - June 27
Welcome to Summer! Campers will dive into the best of summer fun. This week is all about adventure, team-building, and making new friends as we kick off the season with exciting activities and outdoor exploration, including hiking, exploring waterfalls, visiting local parks, playing social games, tie-dyeing t-shirts, and more.

WEEK 2: June 30 - July 3
(Closed Friday, July 4th)
Get ready for an explosive week of exhilaration! We will celebrate the spirit of summer with patriotic fun, outdoor barbecues, handmade crafts, and water games at H2Oasis. Join us for a week of friendship and unforgettable summer memories.

WEEK 3: July 7 - July 11
Embark on an exciting journey of discovering creatures, wild animals, and magical adventures. Campers will see animals from all over this great state and beyond. We will visit the Flying Horse Equestrian Center, the Alaska Zoo, the Salmon Express, and more.

WEEK 4: July 14 - July 18
Summer is in full swing, and this week is the perfect way to soak up the season with a week packed full of adventure, laughter, and classic camp excitement, including a visit to the Wildlife Conservation Center, Anchorage/Trolley Tour, and Jewel Lake for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.

WEEK 5: July 21 - July 25
Spread your wings and explore the world from a whole new perspective. This week we will learn about the wonders of flight, nature, and adventure through activities inspired by birds and aviation. We will visit The Bird Treatment Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and Byron Glacier Trail.

WEEK 6: July 28 - August 1
Just like the vibrant fireweed that flourishes in summer, this week is all about growth, resilience, and embracing the great outdoors. This will be a nature-inspired, adventure-filled week of creativity and fun. We will visit The Anchorage Museum, the Alaska Botanical Gardens, and Arctic Valley.

WEEK 7: August 4 - August 8
During the final week of Camp, we will celebrate each camper's personality, culture, and uniqueness. We will visit the Musk Ox Farm and Alaska Native Heritage Center, and conclude Camp with a Hope Talent Show that all campers will have the opportunity to participate in!
Sponsor a Child to Attend Summer Camp
Would you consider making a donation to our Summer Camp? Your generous contribution will open the door for youth and young adults in our community to access educational experiences through our Summer Camp program. Every summer, our campers experience a journey of creativity, adventure, and discovery. From hands-on educational activities and outdoor exploration to artistic expression and team-building experiences, Camp is a place where young people grow, connect, and thrive.
But not every family can afford the cost of Camp. That’s where you come in.
By donating to our Summer Camp Scholarship Fund, you make it possible for children—regardless of financial circumstances—to attend Camp and build memories that last a lifetime. Your support provides access to a safe, enriching, and inspiring environment where every camper can learn, play, and belong.
Questions? Contact Hope's Community Engagement Center at 907-433-1700 or [email protected].
Thank you King Tech High School Volunteers
March 19, 2025

Key Campaign 2025
March 19, 2025
Top 40 Under 40
March 18, 2025
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Happy Hope Anniversary, Eliseo Ramos
March 17, 2025

Hope Studios First Friday
March 13, 2025
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Protecting Medicaid's Promise for Alaskans with Disabilities
March 10, 2025
"Medicaid isn’t just a line item in the federal budget—it’s a lifeline for our family, friends and neighbors."
International Women's Day
March 8, 2025

Parry Grover's Retirement
March 5, 2025

Women's History Month
March 1, 2025
As we honor Women's History Month this March, we embrace this year's theme, "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations," which celebrates the collective strength and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership, shaping the minds and futures of all generations.
Our organization stands as a testament to this legacy. Hope was founded by a visionary woman, is currently led by a female Executive Director, has a female Board President, and is supported by a workforce where the majority of Direct Support Professionals are women. We are grateful to every woman who has shaped history, driven social change, and championed the disability rights movement, and we are committed to supporting a society where women's contributions are recognized and celebrated.
Throughout history, countless women have championed social change and advanced the disability rights movement. Their advocacy has transformed communities and inspired future generations. Click each woman's photo below to read about her life and the significance of her activism. While the women featured are far from the comprehensive list of those who have made social change, they are a testament to the power of advocacy and can provide inspiration for future activism.
Women and Disability Activism Resources
- March is Women's History Month: A Timeline of Women's Disability Activism
- Women with Disabilities who Made History
- Women's Disability Activism Timeline
- ADAPT - American Disabled for Attendant Programs Today
- Women Enabled International
Literature from Historic Women
- “Including the Voices of Disabled People in the International Development Agenda” by Judy Heumann
- Our Fight for Disability Rights and Why We’re Not Done Yet – TEDx Talk by Judy Heumann
- Video interview of Kitty Cone on parenting and disability
- You Get Proud by Practicing (1992 poem), Choosing Disability (1994), and Survival Strategies for Going Abroad: A Guide for People with Disabilities (2005) by Laura Hershey
- Too Late to Die Young (2005) by Harriet McBryde Johnson
- Shadow and Sunshine (1906) by Eliza Suggs
- The Story of my Life (1903) by Helen Keller
- Claiming Disability and My Body Politic by Simi Linton
- Disability. Dance. Artistry. – YouTube video by Simi Linton
- I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Dr. Maya Angelou (1969)
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
March 1, 2025
2025 Theme: Creating Pathways to Independence
"For individuals with developmental disabilities, independence is a journey—not a destination. It takes community support, dedicated effort, time spent practicing, and opportunities that empower individuals to reach their unique goals. With this theme, we’re highlighting how we can all play a role in paving the way for these opportunities."
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM)—a time to celebrate the contributions of people with developmental disabilities, promote inclusion, and advocate for inclusion, accessibility, and support for people in our community.
In 2023, Governor Mike Dunleavy officially proclaimed March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Alaska. This proclamation is a testament to our great state's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the celebration of each and every individual within our community.
What are Developmental Disabilities?
Developmental disabilities are a group of conditions that affect physical, learning, language, or behavioral development. These disabilities begin in childhood and can impact a person’s daily functioning throughout their life. Some developmental disabilities include:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Cerebral Palsy
- Intellectual Disabilities
- Down Syndrome
- Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)
Why DDAM Matters
People with developmental disabilities often face barriers in education, employment, healthcare, and social inclusion. DDAM is about breaking these barriers and creating a society where everyone has equal opportunities to lead full, meaningful lives.
How Can You Support DDAM?
✅ Educate Yourself & Others
Take time to learn about developmental disabilities and share accurate information to dispel myths and misconceptions.
✅ Advocate for Inclusion & Accessibility
Support policies that promote accessibility in schools, workplaces, and communities. Encourage businesses and organizations to adopt inclusive practices.
✅ Celebrate Diverse Voices
Listen to, uplift, and share the stories of people with developmental disabilities. Recognizing their achievements helps lead to a more inclusive society.
✅ Support Disability-Led Organizations
Hope, along with many other non-profits, work tirelessly to provide resources, advocacy, and community support to people with developmental disabilities. Consider donating or volunteering.
Stories of Hope Newsletter
February 28, 2025
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month—a time to celebrate the contributions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and advocate for policies and programs that support inclusion and security.
Right now, that advocacy is more necessary and urgent than it has been in a long time.
The House of Representatives in D.C has narrowly passed a budget resolution that proposes at least $880 billion in cuts, including significant cuts targeting Medicaid. Though the exact details are uncertain, we know that these cuts would have devastating consequences, particularly for Hope and the people and families who choose our services.
Medicaid enables Hope to provide Home and Community-Based Services that allow people with disabilities to live independently, receive care in their community of choice, and prevent out-of-state institutionalization. Medicaid enables Hope to provide Home and Community-Based Services, supporting people with disabilities to live independently, receive care in their community of choice, and prevent out-of-state institutionalization. In addition, Medicaid provides health care coverage for the majority of Alaskans with disabilities. If these proposed reductions go through, they will almost certainly lead to longer waiting lists, fewer services, and significant disruptions in care for Alaskans who depend on them. The State of Alaska is not in a fiscal position to make up the difference if the Federal match is cut.
The time to act is now.
As the budget process moves to the Senate, our voices must be heard. Lawmakers need to understand how these cuts would fundamentally undermine the well-being and independence of people with disabilities.
Strong advocacy is needed in order to make an impact. More than 30,000 messages have already been sent to legislators through advocacy tools, and more than 4,500 non-profits from all 50 states sent an open letter to lawmakers emphasizing the essential role of charitable organizations, including those providing disability services.
Now, we need to build on that momentum.
Ways you can get involved right away:
- Send a message to Lawmakers: Join the movement and urge our lawmakers to reject these harmful cuts.
- Email or call your federal representative: In just a few minutes, you can send an email or make a phone call to local lawmakers through ANCOR’s advocacy platform. Messages can be sent multiple times—even daily—to ensure our voices are heard.
- Write an op-ed or letter to the editor: Use ANCOR's easy-to-use op-ed template or letter to the editor template to share your thoughts about the need to protect Medicaid funding.
- Share your story: Personal stories make a huge difference. ANCOR is compiling stories and photos from Alaskans that will be delivered to our congressional delegation in Washington, DC. If Medicaid has impacted your life or the life of someone you love, now is the time to speak up.
- Join coalition efforts: Hope has signed on to a national letter as part of a broad coalition of Medicaid advocates, and we’re also working with AADD and Alaskans Together for Medicaid to send a joint letter highlighting the policy concerns specific to our state.
- Spread the word: Follow Hope or ANCOR on Facebook and like and share the posts related to this advocacy. Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to also take action. The more people who reach out to Congress, the stronger our collective voice becomes.
This is not just about numbers. This is about real people whose independence, access to care, and quality of life are at stake.
This Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, please join us in honoring the voices and contributions of people with I/DD by advocating for their right to have access to the services they need.
Your advocacy matters.