Arctic Slope Community Foundation, Inc.

The Arctic Slope Community Foundation, Inc. (ASCF) is a nonprofit organization based in the Arctic Slope region of Alaska, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through charitable and educational initiatives. Established in 2009, ASCF is the only 501(c)(3) community foundation serving this area, focusing on community development, cultural preservation, and capacity building.

Mission and Vision

The mission of ASCF is to strengthen the culture and improve the quality of life among the people of the Arctic Slope. The foundation envisions healthy and vibrant communities that are guided by traditional Inupiat values, promoting a culture of giving and volunteerism.

Key Objectives

ASCF works on a variety of fronts, including:

• Food Security: Fostering initiatives to alleviate hunger and ensure access to nutritious food.
• Education: Supporting educational projects from early childhood through K-12, focusing on enhancing literacy and promoting cultural education.
• Health and Safety: Funding programs that improve community health outcomes and ensure safety.
• Cultural Preservation: Initiating projects that preserve the Inupiaq language and culture, ensuring that traditional knowledge is passed on to future generations.

Financial Overview

ASCF has demonstrated significant fiscal responsibility and impact since its inception. For the fiscal year ending in 2023, ASCF reported:

• Revenue: $4.05 million
• Expenses: $5.44 million
• Total Assets: $9.3 million
• Grants Distributed: Over $13 million to various nonprofit organizations and community projects.

Programs and Initiatives

ASCF has launched several key programs to build community capacity and promote financial literacy, including:

• Success for Nonprofit Audit Preparation (SNAP): A program aimed at enhancing financial management skills among local nonprofit organizations.

• Inupiaq Online: An innovative online tool developed to aid in learning the Inupiaq language.

• Tribal Educator Apprenticeship: A unique program that provides a pathway for paraprofessionals to become certified teachers, combining distance education with practical experience.

Impact

The foundation has awarded more than 250 grants, significantly impacting over eight communities within the Arctic Slope region. These grants have funded diverse projects aimed at improving livelihoods, enhancing cultural education, and addressing pressing community needs.

Community Engagement

ASCF actively engages with local communities to identify needs and opportunities for collaboration. The foundation offers grant opportunities on a rolling basis, encouraging nonprofits to apply for funds that will support vital projects in the region.

Conclusion

The Arctic Slope Community Foundation, Inc. stands as a cornerstone of support and development for the communities of the Arctic Slope. Through its dedicated efforts in philanthropy and community engagement, ASCF continues to promote a vibrant future rooted in cultural heritage and communal resilience.