GCI executives raise nearly $15,000 to support youth experiencing homelessness
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – As Alaskans look ahead to Thanksgiving and consider what they are thankful for, GCI is encouraging families in Anchorage to think about a part of the community that is often forgotten: youth without a stable home or support system. To raise funds and awareness for at-risk youth experiencing homelessness or trafficking, a pair of GCI executives forewent their beds to spend a frosty night outside as part of Covenant House Alaska’s Sleep Out: Corporate Edition.
GCI Vice President of Network Operations Chris Burns and Vice President of Wireless Products Management Josh Lonn joined together to raise nearly $15,000 for this year’s Sleep Out.
“I’m proud to join Josh in representing GCI at this year’s Covenant House Alaska Sleep Out,” said Burns. “Spending one night outside only gives us a glimpse into what far too many of Alaska’s youth experience every day, but it’s a vital glimpse that helps us better understand the importance of the work being done every day by our partners at Covenant House Alaska.”
“GCI has long supported Covenant House and been a consistent participant in each year’s Sleep Out. We’re grateful for the opportunity to continue that tradition,” said Lonn. “Fundraising and raising awareness for Covenant House is key to ensuring the continuation of their programs that help Alaska’s at-risk youth stretch to their greatest potential with art, music, exercise, culture programs and computer skills, as well as services like counseling, education and job opportunities.”
Covenant House Alaska provides many essential services to teens like GED preparation, job readiness, mental health services, life skills training and more. Since 1988, Covenant House Alaska has served more than 26,000 at-risk youth experiencing homelessness.
"The Sleep Out is not about pretending to be homeless," said Alison Kear, executive director at Covenant House Alaska. "It’s an act of solidarity with the 4.2 million young people who experience homelessness each year. It’s a decision that we can’t stay indoors while so many kids remain outside. GCI has always been a loyal supporter of Covenant House Alaska and a strong partner in our efforts to advocate for Alaska’s youth. We are excited for the opportunity to engage with the community in new ways, as we ask our neighbors to register, pick an evening, fundraise and spend one night outside.”
GCI is one of Alaska’s leaders in corporate philanthropy, donating approximately $2 million each year in cash, products and connectivity to organizations across the state. GCI is committed to giving back to the communities it serves and provides employees with 16 hours of paid leave to volunteer with local organizations.
For more information about GCI Gives, visit https://www.gci.com/why-gci/gcigives.
About GCI
Headquartered in Alaska, GCI provides data, mobile, video, voice and managed services to consumer, business, government, and carrier customers throughout Alaska, serving more than 200 communities. The company has invested more than $4 billion in its Alaska network and facilities over the past 40 years and recently launched true standards-based 5G NR service in Anchorage, now the nation’s northernmost 5G service area. Learn more about GCI at www.gci.com. GCI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Broadband Corporation (Nasdaq: LBRDA, LBRDK, LBRDP). Learn more about Liberty Broadband at http://www.libertybroadband.com.