Community

At Thompson & Co., choosing positivity and kindness is part of our mission. Sometimes we help in big ways, like donating gifts to local charities, and other times it’s as simple as leaving a positive note on a coworker’s desk. To celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Week, we’re challenging you to get creative and give back with random acts of kindness.

High school students looking to jump-start STEM careers and earn free college credits can enroll in the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program’s full-time Acceleration Academy.

Rich with gold rush history, Nome, Alaska, is currently celebrating 120 years since gold was first discovered in the town. History lovers can check out retired dredges, steam engines and mining claims.

Many people journal to pass the time, relax or keep a log of their accomplishments, but did you know that it can benefit your mental and even physical health?

The Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program hosted thousands of students, faculty, alumni and strategic partners at its 24th annual Celebration Jan. 18. Honoring students’ past achievements and looking to the future, this year’s celebration theme was “Beyond the Stratosphere” and featured Dr. Bernard A. Harris Jr.

Pick.Click.Give allows Alaskans to donate a portion of their Permanent Fund Dividend to causes and organizations they care about statewide.

Whether you’re a traditionalist and like the feel of pages in your hand, or you prefer to download your books, indulge this January in honor of National Book Month.

Gambel Communications is proud to be completing its second year publishing The New Orleans 100. This milestone is made sweeter because Tod Smith, general manager of our presenting sponsor, WWL-TV (CBS, Tegna), recently was awarded The 100 Companies’ inaugural Visionary Award.

This year, Alaska is celebrating its 60th year of statehood. We’re sharing some of the coolest facts about our favorite state:

Celebrate the holidays with gifts that give back from the Alaska Zoo. Whether you’re shopping for friends or family, the zoo has something for animal-lovers of all ages.

On Friday, Nov. 30, Southcentral Alaska experienced a destructive 7.0 magnitude earthquake that damaged homes and infrastructure, displaced students and disrupted the lives of residents.

The holiday season’s here, and there are tons of apps for your smartphone to get you in the holiday spirit. From shopping to travel to fun, here are some of my favorite apps this season:

You’re at the age where you start thinking more realistically when it comes to answering the “what do you want for Christmas?” question. Instead of saying “I don’t know,” say you’re looking to read more in 2019, and provide a list of titles that you’ve been eyeing for months. Whether you prefer reading a hardback, e-version or audiobook, adding reading to your daily routine is a great habit to form in 2019.

With so much hate in the world, can one person make a difference? Entrepreneur Peter Shankman says yes, and it begins with a caring attitude.

Spread cheer by sending holiday cards to friends and loved ones this year. Dec. 9 is Christmas Card Day, and Alaska is the perfect location for your winter landscape family photo or a Made in Alaska card.

Sporty or luxe, quirky or tasty, these Alaska-made gifts are perfect for tucking under the tree or in a stocking this holiday season. Check out our list of the best Alaska-made gifts from around the state, and get everyone checked off of your holiday shopping list (and maybe something for yourself, too.)

The holiday season is just around the corner, and before you know it 2019 will be here. November is notoriously the time of year when the holiday stress starts to hit, both at home and at work. Here are some tips to conquer that pile of responsibilities during the busiest time of year:

There’s no shortage of design inspiration each holiday. From the homes on St. Charles to the Instagram posts, it’s easy to feel both excited and overwhelmed. Here are some decorating tips that strike a balance between festive and frugal:

The holidays are here, and it’s definitely the most wonderful time of year. From baking cookies to singing carols, everyone has their own traditions. Although people debate when to start decorating or play Christmas music, one of the most heated topics is the best holiday movie debate.

Most people know Alaska for its amazing slopes and endless backcountry trails – a dream for skiers and snowboarders. The state is also perfectly constructed for another timeless winter activity: downhill sledding.

The holiday season is in full swing, and contrary to popular memes, you do not need alcohol to make it through. Whether you’re sober or not, plan sober-friendly celebrations by providing alcohol-free options and never pressure people to choose alcohol.

On Nov. 15, Thompson & Co.’s CEO Jennifer Thompson spent a cold winter’s night outdoors with other Alaska executives to show solidarity with the 4.2 million young people in America who experience homelessness each year. The Sleep Out, Covenant House’s annual awareness campaign, raises funds for programs, resources and shelter for local homeless youth.

This special “Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down” is giving nonprofits all “Thumbs Up” this week:

Did you know Alaska celebrates National Philanthropy Day? The Alaska Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals coordinated its annual Alaska Philanthropy Day on Friday, Nov. 16, with a day of professional development sessions geared toward Alaska nonprofits looking to grow their philanthropic skill set.

While people prepare for the holidays by shopping for gifts and baking feasts, animals prepare by stocking up on food. If feeding a big family on Thanksgiving sounds pricey, consider the cost of feeding over 100 animals daily.

Great Land Trust is an Anchorage-based nonprofit focused on land conservation for community benefit in Southcentral Alaska.

As Alaskans focus on tasty turkey dinners, Santa Claus and Black Friday deals, it’s important to take a step back and consider those less fortunate. GCI is stepping up to make the holiday season brighter for those who may need some extra help.

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter across the state of Alaska and in their local communities. ACF partners with nonprofits that tackle pressing needs and issues such as homelessness, education, social justice and workforce development.

November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Do you know about Alaska’s leading source of information, support and services?

The Alaska Zoo hopes to ring in 2019 with an updated brown bear habitat, and BP is generously matching up to $20,000 in private donations. Any contribution made to the Alaska Zoo’s general fund will be matched dollar for dollar.