Community Engagement

Gathering at Nuchek Spirit Camp

In 2007, First Alaskans Institute introduced its Community Investments Awards funding initiative for projects that demonstrate collaborative efforts among community organizations to plan and implement innovative, lasting programs that contribute to healthy and thriving communities. 2007 funding awarded results-based activities that include family and community partnerships in the following areas:

• early childhood education activities that better prepare children for success in school;
• increasing high school graduation rates;
• connecting Elders and youth in cultural learning;
• promoting youth leadership development opportunities.

First Alaskans piloted this funding project as a result of the Native Community’s feedback and recommendations resulting from participation in Education Summits, the Summer Internship program, Elders & Youth Conference, Policy Center research projects and discussion series, and participation in statewide and local advisory groups.