Dear Members and Supporters,
As of September 15, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., the Northern Alaska Environmental Center has placed all programs on pause. This difficult step comes in response to serious financial strain. With limited funds available, the Board of Directors has made the painful but necessary decision to furlough our employees until we can stabilize the organization.
This moment is one of challenge, but also of commitment. We know how important the Northern Center’s role is in protecting Alaska’s lands, waters, and wildlife, and in standing alongside Alaska Native Tribes in defense of subsistence and community well-being.
Why This Step Was Necessary
For more than 50 years, the Northern Center has endured ups and downs, but today’s financial reality requires decisive action. By pausing programs and furloughing staff, we are taking immediate steps to:
- Reorganize Northern Center’s structure to reduce overhead and improve accountability.
- Rebuild financial stability through renewed fundraising, donor engagement, and diversifying our grant sources.
- Refocus on our core mission, ensuring every campaign reflects the values Northern Center was founded on in 1971.
These changes are essential if Northern Center is to not just survive but emerge stronger for the future.
Our Legacy, Our Future
From Jim Kowalsky and the early founders to today’s board and members, the Northern Center has always been rooted in community, persistence, and collaboration. That legacy is worth protecting. But to carry it forward, we need your help.
How You Can Support NAEC Now
- Financial contributions: Your donations are critical in helping us cover basic operating expenses during this pause.
- Volunteer engagement: We welcome your skills, energy, and ideas as we rebuild and refocus.
- Join the Night for the North planning committee: Even in this time of transition, we are looking ahead. Night for the North is one of our most important gatherings, and this year it can help us reconnect with our community and secure the future of the Northern Center. We are forming a planning committee, and we invite you to join us in Fairbanks (at our office at 830 College Road) for the first meeting on Monday, September 22, 2025 at 6 p.m. With two months to plan, we have the opportunity to create a truly meaningful event, one that celebrates our history, uplifts our community, and supports the Northern Center during this critical time.
Transitions are never easy, but with the strength of our members and community, we believe Northern Center will find its way forward. Together, we can continue the fight to protect Alaska’s wild places and the communities who depend on them.
With gratitude and determination,
The Board of Directors
Northern Alaska Environmental Center
Krystal Lapp, President (president@northern.
Jeffery Groenke, Vice President/Treasurer (Jeffery@northern.org)
David Leslie, Secretary (secretary@northern.org)
