At Chugach Alaska Corporation (Chugach), service and community support are at the heart of what we do. That’s why we launched 12 Months of Giving in 2022 to empower our employees to give back to the causes that matter most to them. As a reminder, each month, one employee-nominated nonprofit organization is selected to receive a $1,000 donation from Chugach. In addition to the financial contribution, we highlight the organization and the employee’s story to raise awareness and encourage more support for the nominated organizations.
As we reflect on 2024, we want to recognize all of this year’s winners at one time. Going forward, we will share all of our annual winners in 2025 and beyond in one consolidated list as opposed to month-to-month – but nominations are accepted year-round! Don’t forget to submit your nominations for 2025 (see below), and join us in celebrating all the organizations and employees who participated in making a difference in 2024.
2024 12 Months of Giving Recipients
January: Wigs for Kids
Nominated by Alec Kocher (Chugach Government Solutions (CGS) or a CGS subsidiary)
Alec has personally donated his hair multiple times to Wigs for Kids, which provides free wigs to children who have lost their hair due to cancer. This organization helps restore confidence and comfort to children facing difficult medical battles.
February: Warrior Foundation / Freedom Station
Nominated by Kevin Terry (CGS or a CGS subsidiary)
Warrior Foundation supports injured service members as they transition to civilian life by providing transitional housing, wellness programs, personal support, and outdoor therapy. Kevin’s nomination reflects Chugach’s commitment to honoring and assisting our nation’s Warriors.
March: Alzheimer’s Association
Nominated by Timothy E Wagner (CGS or a CGS subsidiary)
After losing his mother to Alzheimer’s in 2017, Timothy continues to support this organization’s mission to find treatments and, ultimately, a cure. His nomination highlights the importance of funding research to combat this devastating disease.
April: Cowboys for Cancer Research
Nominated by Shelby Preece (CGS or a CGS subsidiary)
Based in Las Cruces, NM, this nonprofit raises funds for cancer research and community awareness. Shelby and many local employees actively support its initiatives, demonstrating the power of grassroots fundraising.
May: The Fern 45
Nominated by Tylor Martinez (CGS or a CGS subsidiary)
The Fern 45 hosts events to assist veterans and other nonprofits, including providing adrenaline therapy for PTSD and maintaining Veterans’ cemeteries. Tylor’s nomination sheds light on the vital services this organization provides.
June: Alaska Men’s Run
Nominated by Diana Brinkman (CAC)
Diana has long been involved with this cause, running with Team Mike, Hal & Pals to support those battling prostate and testicular cancer. She encourages Chugach employees to prioritize men’s health initiatives.
July: Camp Kesem
Nominated by Edna Rodriguez (CGS or a CGS subsidiary)
Edna and her family have been impacted by cancer, and they have seen the toll it takes, especially on children who have to witness loved ones go through cancer treatments. To this end, Camp Kesem provides a supportive community for children whose parents have cancer. Edna’s family has contributed both time and donations, recognizing the organization’s impact on young lives.
August: Spread the Word Nevada
Nominated by Craig Wilkens (CGS or a CGS subsidiary)
Craig nominated this nonprofit because of its dedication to children’s literacy. By providing books to at-risk, low-income children, Spread the Word Nevada ensures that more families have access to reading materials.
September: Vets2Industry
Nominated by Jordan Tyler Droke (CGS or a CGS subsidiary)
As a newly separated service member, Jordan has personally benefited from Vets2Industry’s resources, which help Veterans and their families transition into civilian careers. His nomination reinforces the need to support those who served.
October: Blue Heart Foundation
Nominated by Patrise Dorsey Johnston (CGS or a CGS subsidiary)
Focused on underserved youth in San Diego, Blue Heart Foundation provides mentorship, college tours, and professional development opportunities. Patrise believes in their mission to uplift young people and create brighter futures!
November: AARF (Alaskan Animal Rescue Friends)
Nominated by Holly Blackstone (CCH)
This organization rescues abandoned dogs across Alaska and from shelters in the Lower 48, finding them loving homes. Several adopters, including the Holly’s sister and friends, have provided these dogs with caring families, where they have become cherished companions and emotional support animals.
December: Let Every Woman Know – Alaska
Nominated by Lark Christensen (CAC)
Lark’s mother is battling Ovarian Cancer, and this nonprofit has provided invaluable support through education, resources, and handmade hats for patients. Above all, this organization provided comfort and compassion to those they serve.
Chugach extends our heartfelt gratitude to all the employees who took the time to nominate organizations for the 12 Months of Giving program in 2024. Your passion and commitment to supporting these causes have made a meaningful impact in the communities where we live and work.
Get Involved in 12 Months of Giving!
The 12 Months of Giving program is a reflection of Chugach’s commitment to being an active and responsible corporate citizen with our employees being the driving force that makes it possible. By participating, our employees bring awareness and funding to causes close to their hearts. These nominations demonstrate how one person’s passion can lead to meaningful change.
We encourage all employees to take part! If there’s a nonprofit organization you care about, consider submitting a nomination. The application process is quick, and your nonprofit could receive a $1,000 donation, along with increased visibility through Chugach’s communication channels.
Your involvement strengthens our impact and reinforces Chugach’s values of service, community, and giving back. Together, we can continue making a difference—one month at a time.