‘Seven Alaska Youth Recognized as Local Community Heroes’

Seven Alaska Youth Recognized as Local Community Heroes

With a heart to serve others, young Alaskans are changing lives and making their communities better. From advocating for legislation in the U.S. Congress to supporting their peers, and raising awareness and funds for causes important to them, youth across the state are having a positive impact on Alaska.

Through the Summer of Heroes Program, Alaska Communications is celebrating seven young people for their outstanding community service across Alaska. The youth each will be awarded a $2,000 scholarship for their efforts, no strings attached.

“Our youth are the changemakers of tomorrow, and it is our privilege to acknowledge their extraordinary contributions today,” said Matt McConnell, Alaska Communications president and CEO. “By recognizing and supporting these young heroes, we are investing in the future of Alaska. Their passion, determination and commitment to making a difference inspires us all. Congratulations to this year’s recipients, and thank you for your exceptional service to our communities.”

The 2024 youth heroes hail from Anchorage, Fairbanks, Kodiak and Soldotna. They are showing us that anyone can be a hero and make a positive and lasting impact on their community.

Emily Brubaker, 13, Anchorage – Emily has met with Alaska’s congressional delegation on several occasions to advocate on behalf of legislation to close an insurance loophole and require medical insurance companies to cover treatment for birth defects or congenital anomalies. Her efforts raised awareness about the issue and also helped influence legislative action.

Maya Carlson, 17, Anchorage – After an injury that put her out of participating in sports, Maya didn’t give up and instead turned it into an opportunity to support her peers. From attending early morning practices as a team manager to hosting team events, Maya has spent many hours supporting her teams and helping others be their best.

Sara DeVolld, 16, Soldotna – Sara believes youth shouldn’t feel pressure to choose either the arts or the sciences because they can do both. She is fusing modern science and technology with classic art and design through wearable art. With more than 850 hours of work in her designs that are then sold at auction, she’s helped raise more than $400,000 for Alaska non-profits.

Jillian Dolph, 16, Anchorage – She embodies the idea of treating others as you would like to be treated, is a champion of causes important to her and takes the time to contribute to other people’s success. Jillian believes we all can do something to contribute to a healthy, strong and successful community.

Fernando Escobar, 18, Kodiak – He’s a champion for the underdog and also provides service and direction to those seeking help. As a judge serving on the Kodiak Teen Court, Fernando shows great empathy towards defendants while not being afraid to hold them accountable for their actions.

Gunnar Sudsbury Giuchici, 12, Fairbanks – – Gunnar demonstrates a remarkable sense of generosity and compassion for others, particularly on days where attention should be focused on him. Through annual birthday donations to his Fairbanks community’s animal shelter, he has raised several thousand dollars to benefit animals in need and help improve living conditions at the shelter.

Grace Hurley, 17, Kodiak – Grace gives her time to children and adults through the Special Friends group at her church where attendees can share meals together, play games, help with studies and engage in conversations. She’s also learning American Sign Language and graphic design which she hopes to use for the benefit of special needs communities as she dedicates herself to a  lifetime of serving others.

Now in its 14th year, Summer of Heroes is a partnership program between Alaska Communications and Boys & Girls Clubs of Southcentral Alaska, a statewide organization, to support youth development programs and honor young Alaskans who are making positive contributions in their communities. Since its inception, 87 youth have received scholarships and been recognized for their work in 26 communities across Alaska. This year marks the first time youth from the Kodiak are recognized for their good deeds, and it’s notable that two heroes were selected from that area this season.

“The Summer of Heroes Program is a testament to the incredible potential of our youth. Through selfless acts and tireless efforts, these young heroes are not only transforming their communities but also setting an example of character and leadership for future generations,” said Susan A. Anderson, M. Ed., CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southcentral Alaska.

As part of the program, the Alaska Communications is donating $15,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Southcentral Alaska to further support youth development in the state and expand the organization’s capacity to positively impact the lives of young people in Alaska.

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