Why Businesses Should Invest in Rural Alaska's Future: Sponsor School Activities and Make a Difference

Growing up in Alaska, I was fortunate to experience firsthand the power of a well-funded school trip. As a nine-year-old student at Nulato School (now Andrew K. Demoski School), I was among the lucky few chosen for a trip to California. Schools at that time were well-funded due to the new Trans-Alaska Pipeline System. Standing in awe of the redwood trees, driving over the Golden Gate Bridge, and experiencing the thrills of Disneyland – these experiences broadened my horizons in ways I never imagined, sparking a lifelong love of learning and traveling.

Today, fully funded opportunities are increasingly rare, especially for students in rural Alaska, where schools face chronic funding constraints. Most students often rely on fundraising for field trips and activities. However, rural students are at a disadvantage compared to their urban counterparts because they don’t have as much access to businesses willing to sponsor school-related activities. This is where businesses can step in and make a significant difference.

Benefits of Sponsorship: A Win-Win for Businesses and Communities

By sponsoring school activities, businesses not only contribute to a student's growth but also reap numerous advantages:

• Community Engagement and Reputation: Supporting local schools demonstrates a commitment to the community's well-being. Schools are often the heart of rural Alaska, drawing residents together for sports and other activities. By sponsoring these events, businesses gain positive visibility and build trust with potential customers.

Example: Imagine sponsoring the annual Andrew K. Demoski School Science Fair. Your logo on event materials and a representative judging projects positions your company as a champion of education, fostering goodwill among residents. 

• Workforce Development: Investing in education today cultivates a skilled workforce for tomorrow. Businesses can sponsor career fairs, guest speaker sessions, or even pilot programs introducing students to specific fields. This engagement fosters interest in potential career paths and creates a talent pipeline for the future.

Example: Partner with a rural school district to host an "Industry Day" where professionals from various fields discuss their careers with students. This sparks student interest and creates a network for future internships or job opportunities.

•  Talent Retention and Attraction: Many young people leave rural communities for educational and employment opportunities. Businesses that support local schools help create a vibrant environment, encouraging families to stay and contribute to the community's growth.

Beyond the Bottom Line: Fostering Cultural Understanding and Employee Engagement

The benefits extend further:

• Cultural Appreciation: Rural Alaska has a rich, evolving, vibrant cultural landscape. Businesses can sponsor cultural events or camps, fostering respect and understanding of local traditions. This enriches the educational experience for students and provides valuable insights for businesses seeking to connect with the community on a deeper level.

Example: Sponsor a traditional sewing workshop at the school in Kiana. This exposes students to their heritage while allowing your company to learn about the community's values and artistic traditions.

•  Employee Engagement: Sponsorship opportunities can inspire employees to volunteer or mentor students. This benefits the students and fosters a sense of purpose and belonging among employees.

Example: Offer paid volunteer days for employees to assist with school events or mentor students. This fosters team spirit and strengthens connections within the community. Most schools are connected to the internet, allowing more collaboration opportunities.

Building Long-Term Partnerships: Investing in the Future

Moving beyond one-time sponsorships, businesses can explore opportunities for:

• Long-Term Partnerships: Partnerships with schools on STEM programs, for instance, create a sustained impact on educational quality, especially in an ever-changing world.
• Collaboration: Working together on projects, internships, or mentorship programs allows businesses to share expertise, foster innovation, and tap into rural communities' unique strengths. Cultural exchanges, work-site visits, and collaborative projects are just a few examples.

My personal journey, ignited by a school-sponsored trip, exemplifies the transformative power of educational experiences. Let's ensure all students in Alaska have similar opportunities. Businesses have the capacity to play a vital role in shaping the future of rural Alaska by investing in its educational landscape.

Are you ready to take action?

Are you a business seeking to make a meaningful impact in rural Alaska? Bloom Communications connects businesses with rural stakeholders to foster meaningful collaboration. We specialize in Alaska Native culture training and stakeholder engagement. Let's grow together, Alaska. Contact us today to learn more!