OUR WORK

Champion for Kids

Each year, Alaska Children’s Trust recognizes individuals who demonstrate dedication and commitment in working to ensure that children and youth are living in safe, supportive, and nurturing communities. We call these individuals Champions for Kids.

Thank you for Helping Us Reach Our Goal!

Children are Alaska’s most valuable resource and our hope for the future. Thank you for standing with us and investing in the work of the Alaska Children’s Trust during our annual Champion for Kids Campaign.

On behalf of our Board of Directors and the ACT team, thank you for helping us surpass our $50,000 fundraising goal with a total of $65,000! HOORAY! Your incredible donations are giving new opportunities and hope to children and families across the state. Together we are preventing child abuse and neglect. We hope you take great pride in the role you played towards helping us achieve our fundraising goal! We can't wait to share more incredible stories of the impact your donations are making across Alaska.

Meet our 2024 Champions!

  • Jodi Stuart

    Champion

    Jodi Stuart has dedicated 14 years to supporting Alaska's most vulnerable populations. With a Bachelor's in Arts and a Master's in Education, she transitioned from teaching to community impact roles. As a Probation/Parole Officer, she led the Kenai Peninsula Re-entry Coalition, securing grants to reduce recidivism and address substance use crises. She also serves in Rotary, taking on roles such as District 5010 Leadership Academy Dean, instructor, and Secretary, while actively engaging in local initiatives.

  • Hank Nuwer

    Champion

    Hank Nuwer has spent nearly 50 years advocating for youth safety, especially through his work on hazing prevention. His research has influenced national and international efforts to protect students. Now residing in Fairbanks, Hank continues to support Alaska's youth through his writing and public service.

  • Kay Larson

    Champion

    Kay Larson has devoted her life to promoting empathy, character education, and community well-being. Co-founder of BRAVE, she has led initiatives like the Family Resilience Fair and Child Abuse Prevention Month, working for a peaceful, violence-free world for children.

  • Carolyn Iverson

    Champion

    Carolyn Iverson has served as a school social worker in Bethel, Alaska, for 11 years, working with Mikelnguut Elitnaurviat (K-2) and Ayaprun Elitnaurvik, a Yupik immersion school (K-6). Her commitment reflects her dedication to the well-being and development of the children in her community.

  • Dr. Cathy Baldwin-Johnson

    Lifetime Champion

    Dr. Cathy has dedicated her career to protecting Alaska’s most vulnerable children. As co-founder of The Children’s Place and Medical Director of Alaska CARES, she has transformed pediatric forensic practices, advocated for peer support among health providers, and developed training to ensure every child receives the care and justice they deserve.

Meet Our Past Champions for Kids!

The Champion for Kids Award recognizes Alaskans for their contributions to Alaska’s children, whether through their professional employment, volunteer work, community activities, or active work with children.

Over the years, ACT has identified Champions for KIds from across our state. View our past Champions for Kids in the booklet below!

Thank you to our
2024 sponsors

Thank you to our amazing 2024 Challenge grant sponsors! YOU help make the work of ACT possible, providing a match grant for funds raised during the Champion for Kids Challenge Campaign.

Cementing Positive Childhood Experiences Sponsor


$5,000 Sponsorship Level

Building Tools for Success Sponsor


$2,500 Sponsorship Level

Constructing a Culture of Positive Parenting Sponsor


$1,000 Sponsorship Level