The Alaska Native Heritage Center celebrated the news that it was the recipient of a $295,000 grant by presenting an ancient and unusual Yup'ik Eskimo dance performed with an enormous mask. The Center was one of four Alaska art groups that will receive over $1 million from the national ArtPlace initiative. Read more…
Standing Beside Alaska's Non-Profits
Foraker Group Blog | Fundraising 
People who rely on Alaska's nonprofit organizations -- and that includes just about all of us -- need to look at a recent report on the economic health of the sector. It's sobering and mirrors a broader issue that Alaska leaders have talked about for years -- the need to move away from heavy dependence on the oil industry and federal funding and set up systems that equitably balance the cost of providing needed programs and services.
This is the lead for a recent Compass article by Dennis McMillian that was published in the Anchorage Daily News. Read the full piece here.
My work at Foraker engages me in many conversations with organizations on issues of governance and fundraising. A consistent topic over the years has been about helping board members understand their role as donors. This conversation is difficult because the challenges are both organizational and personal. Recently I was asked for some quick advice for an organization that has yet to achieve its 100% board giving goal, but wants to ask a foundation for funding. It is a common foundation requirement that the board be donors first. While this is absolutely the right message from the funder, the motivation for the organization can be less than ideal. If board members view the giving requirement as necessary only to satisfy a funder, the likelihood that their gifts will continue is almost nonexistent. In a recent article, I highlighted some key concepts and conversations that an organization can undertake to ensure that the foundation requirement is a catalyst for long-term sustainable change in the organization. We look forward to your thoughts on this.
Laurie Wolf, Vice President, Programs, The Foraker Group
After a brutal year that included personnel cuts and a dramatic reduction in giving, the Rasmuson Foundation anticipates a transition ahead to “the new normal” — cautious optimism and increasing donations to Alaska charities and artists. Read more…
