Our Work
Alaska Children’s Trust is a statewide nonprofit organization working to prevent child abuse and neglect by advocating for children, youth, and families, catalyzing change, and convening Alaskans. Our mission is large and complex, so to achieve it, we must harness and build upon the incredible power of our communities, close partnerships, and committed Alaskans.
FOCUS AREAS
Programs & Trainings
Grants
Alaska Children’s Trust awards grants to organizations in Alaska that work towards preventing child abuse and neglect, investing in programs that support thriving childhoods and healthy families.
Our grant-making work helps equip Alaskan programs and communities with the tools and supports they need to ensure our children live in safe, stable, and nurturing environments.
TRAINING
ACEs & PCEs
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and positive childhood experiences (PCEs) during childhood play a part in shaping us into the adults we become. Our trainings, History & Hope and Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences (HOPE), introduce Alaskans to ACEs and PCEs and techniques for healing and supporting Alaska’s children and youth.
TRAINING
Trauma-Informed Care
A trauma-informed approach acknowledges that our life experiences shape how we each see and interact with the world. This approach encourages feelings of connectedness and safety while lessening the chances of retraumatization (reliving stress reactions from a traumatic event). To help spread the word on the principles of trauma-informed care, Alaska Children’s Trust has recorded webinars, resources, and an annual cohort of Alaskan organizations dedicated to integrating trauma-informed practices into work.
PILOT PROGRAM & RESOURCES
Child Sexual Abuse Prevention
Child sexual abuse, or CSA, can be a difficult topic to talk - or even think - about. But in Alaska, child sexual abuse is all too common. Alaska Children’s Trust’s efforts to prevent child sexual abuse include community- based efforts to promote healing from intergenerational trauma and break the silence, information dissemination to caregivers to share with youth, and more.
PROGRAM
Alaska Afterschool Network
The Alaska Afterschool Network is dedicated to increasing afterschool and expanded learning opportunities for children, youth, and families.
Research shows the many benefits of access to afterschool programs, including their direct support of the Strengthening Families Protective Factors. Learn more about the Network and its work to shore up supports for Alaska’s families.
FOCUS AREAS
Policy & Advocacy
Alaska Children’s Trust recognizes that the way policies and systems are designed and implemented can either prevent or perpetuate the factors that can lead to child abuse and neglect.
Our work in policy and advocacy helps give a voice to Alaska’s most valuable resource, its children, and encourages decision-makers to prioritize impactful, equitable, and community-driven policies and investments.
FOCUS AREAS
Research & Data
Alaska Children’s Trust disseminates data and funds research into child well-being in Alaska.
Our research and data work highlights the diverse realities and needs of communities throughout our state and strategically informs advocates, policymakers, providers, and families alike.
We ask the question “If our children were thriving how would we know?” and look to data for the answers.
FOCUS AREAS
Campaigns & Events
Child Abuse Prevention Month
Child Abuse Prevention Month in April is a time to raise awareness about the far-reaching effects of child abuse and neglect and inspire collective action so that Alaska’s children can lead their best lives.
Mush For Kids
Mush for Kids is ACT’s premier family event in Fairbanks, a free event that encourages the Strengthening Families protective factors by providing a day of fun activities and resources for families.
Champion For Kids
Champion for Kids is an annual recognition of Alaskans that go above and beyond- individuals who have contributed to the lives of children and youth in our state. The recognition of these Champions corresponds with our Challenge Campaign, a fundraising event geared towards ending child abuse and neglect.