Dear Editor: On behalf of Brave Heart Volunteers, I want to extend our sincerest gratitude to everyone who made this year’s Brave Heart Bowls event such a resounding success. Thanks to your incredible support, we raised more than $20,000 – funds that will go directly toward providing free, compassionate care for Sitkans facing grief, loneliness, and end-of-life.
We are especially grateful to the University of Alaska Southeast ceramics department for their continued partnership, which makes this event possible each year. A heartfelt thank you also goes to the local artists who donated their time and talent: Liz Zacher, Richard Zacher, Gaylen Needham, Robert Rose, Ritch Phillips, Phyllis Hackett, Josh Ragnes, Auriella Hughes, Michele Friedman, Shanti Friedman, Kathleen McCrossin, Trenton Capp, Holly Morris, Jo Ingman, Cara Crain, Marge Steward, and Katie Sill. Your work brought beauty, warmth, and meaning to every bowl shared.
We also want to recognize the generous support of local restaurants and businesses who donated soup and bread: Ludvig’s, Mean Queen, Westmark, The Nugget, Pizza Express, WildFlour, and Sea Mart.
Our hearts are so full after witnessing the kindness and generosity of this community. You showed up with open hearts, supported local art, and affirmed the importance of connection and care.
If you missed the event or want to collect another one-of-a-kind bowl, keep an eye out – we’ll be holding a special sale of remaining bowls this August.
At Brave Heart Volunteers, we provide one-on-one companionship, grief support, and education for individuals and families navigating some of life’s most tender moments. Every dollar raised helps us offer these services free of charge to those who need them most.
Thank you for standing with us. Sitka, you truly are a community of brave hearts. With gratitude,
Jason Own, Executive Director, Brave Heart Volunteers, Sitka
