Seven Alaska Teens Honored For Community Service, Named Local Heroes

From Anchorage Chamber of Commerce:

August 10, 2021

From improving their school climates and connections, to building bridges to help others despite their own hardships, finding their voice for others and honoring their culture, and even learning new skills specifically to support those in need, Alaska youth are doing heroic acts in their local communities.

Through the Summer of Heroes Program, Alaska Communications is proud to celebrate seven teens for their outstanding community service across Alaska. Five youth heroes at large and two youth heroes from the company’s employee program will be awarded a $1,500 scholarship for their efforts. Additionally, as part of the program, Alaska Communications will donate $15,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs – Alaska to further support youth development in the state.

“Helping others is a welcome and rewarding experience. It’s particularly remarkable when those giving their time are teens who recognize the positive difference they’re making in other’s lives,” said Bill Bishop, president and CEO. “This year’s heroes are finding their voice to stand up for others, grow their school communities, volunteer behind-the-scenes and more. It’s our pleasure to recognize their efforts and showcase the good they’re doing.”

Congratulations to the following 2021 youth heroes:

• Nychè Andrew, 18, Anchorage
• Jade Balansag, 18, Wrangell
• Logan Ehrhart, 13, Anchorage
• Stellen Johnson, 18, Anchorage
• Jayvyn Kalbfus, 16, Anchorage
• Darby Osborne, 17, Sitka
• Selena Payment, 16, Soldotna

Read the inspiring stories of this year’s youth heroes.

Now in its 11th year, Summer of Heroes is a partnership program between Alaska Communications and Boys & Girls Clubs – Alaska to support youth development programs and honor young Alaskans who are making positive contributions in their communities. Since its inception, 67 youth have received scholarships and been recognized for their work in 22 communities across Alaska. Additionally, $165,000 has been donated to Boys & Girls Clubs – Alaska to support the Club’s programs and expand the organization’s capacity to positively impact the lives of young people in Alaska.

“Whether it’s a series of small tasks or a large-scale project, the effort being put in by this year’s young heroes is outstanding,” said Alana Humphrey, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs – Alaska. “So many youth are making life a little bit better for others and don’t ask for anything in return. I’m grateful this program is putting the spotlight on the good in our communities.”

Learn more about Alaska Communications’ work in the community through the Summer of Heroes program at www.alaskacommunciations.com/summerofheroes.

This press release was produced by the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce. The views expressed are the author's own.