Published December 10, 2018, by Michele Brown 

Now that we’ve all had a week to regain our bearings and assess damages after the November 30 earthquake, we’re gaining a better grasp of the recovery challenges ahead.

The Foraker Group surveyed Anchorage and Mat-Su nonprofit agencies and found that some suffered significant damage and disruption, while others — like United Way’s 2-1-1 — were able to immediately respond to increased demand from Alaskans who needed help. I hope you’ll take a minute to read this first-hand account of the 2-1-1 experience in the hours and days that followed the quake, and that you’ll join us on social media to say #ThanksNeighbor to those who lent a hand.

Between the two extremes are many nonprofit partners that will need support to resume normal operations. Individuals, families, nonprofits, and schools in Anchorage and the Mat-Su Borough have both short-term and long-term needs. I will share more details as I learn them.

United Way of Anchorage continues to accept donations online and via text to support ongoing earthquake recovery efforts in the Anchorage bowl. One hundred percent of all gifts to United Way of Anchorage for earthquake recovery are tax deductible and will be used to support Anchorage-area needs.

Proceeds will be leveraged and distributed through a collaboration with funders and providers in The Alaska Disaster Recovery Fund. The fund will be housed at the Alaska Community Foundation, and proceeds will go directly to nonprofits working to aid individuals in need. This is the way we LIve United.

On behalf of a community United to rally, thank you.

Michele Brown
President and CEO