Dear Editor: As we reflect on the meaning of connection and compassion in Sitka, we are grateful for the many lives touched by Brave Heart Volunteers. Whether you have supported us as a volunteer, an artist, a donor, received companionship or respite, or had a loved one comforted by our volunteers, you are part of the BHV family. The Brave Heart Volunteers Board thanks you! Gunalchéesh.
For nearly three decades, BHV has stood for a simple belief: no one in our community should face illness, isolation or end of life alone. Every day, Sitkans show the power of walking together, sharing stories, or offering gentle presence during difficult moments. These gifts of kindness are always free—and we are committed to keeping them free for generations to come.
This circle of care relies on training, coordination, volunteer support, and the generosity of our community. As a small nonprofit, donor support is essential to sustaining our mission and meeting our annual budget.
If BHV’s work has made a difference to you, your family, or your community, we invite you to make a year-end gift. Together, we can ensure that companionship, dignity, and heart-centered support remain available to all who seek it in the coming year.
This year, we also invite you to help secure BHV’s future by contributing to our Endowment. Thanks to Roger and Mary Hames, who launched our campaign with a $10,000 gift in memory of Barbara Hames, we are working toward a $50,000 goal. We have raised nearly $11,000 and need significant support to complete this effort.
Gifts to the Endowment strengthen the long-term stability of our programs so future volunteers, care receivers, and families can rely on the same compassionate presence available today.
For those wishing to leave a lasting Legacy gift, please consider including BHV in your estate plans, will, or beneficiary designations ensures that your values of care and community continue to shape Sitka for years to come.
Your generosity today—and your vision for tomorrow—help preserve the heart of what makes BHV so special. Together, we can safeguard the future of free, community-centered volunteer support in Sitka.
braveheartvolunteers.org/donate-to-braveheart
With gratitude,
The BHV Board of Directors,
Michele Friedman, Phyllis Hackett, Gloria Pies, Valerie Waddell,
Claire Reilly, Bridget Hitchcock, Kim Hunter and Marshall Barg
