Arctic Directory: GCI executives raise money to support homeless youth

Petroleum News

As reported by GCI News Nov. 21, 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 Connectivity Products Josh Lonn and Vice President of Wholesale Business Krag Johnsen joined together to raise more than $12,000 for this year's Sleep Out, which took place on Nov. 16, 2023. "Sleep Out was a unique opportunity to better understand, firsthand, the hardships that unhoused youth experience," said Lonn. "The stress and anxiety that accompany day-to-day life on the streets in Anchorage are something that no young person should have to experience. It feels good to support Covenant House's mission to provide a roof and a path for young people at risk." "I grew up in Anchorage and always admired Covenant House for their work with homeless and trafficked youth," said Johnsen. "When I participated in Sleep Out, I learned firsthand more about the challenges and successes of these young people and the staff who support them. I was amazed by the impact Covenant House has on young people's lives every day. Thank you to GCI Gives and other GCI Trailblazers for their generous donations to Covenant House. I am proud to be part of a company that cares about our community." 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. 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.