The Salvation Army Alaska Division’s Season of Giving Goes Virtual
As the pandemic altered each of our lives and affected the financial stability of many individuals and families in Anchorage, The Salvation Army knew that its 2020 Season of Giving annual fundraiser must go on. In 2019, The Salvation Army served almost 9,000 individuals at Christmas in Anchorage. This year, The Army anticipated the need would be closer to 13,000 people, so the need to raise funds was still great.
COVID-19 restrictions didn’t allow for large in-person gatherings, so it was decided The Salvation Army would host its first-ever virtual Season of Giving on Thursday, November 19, 2020. The goal being to raise $100,000 for social services in Anchorage. While we missed out on the opportunity to enjoy the singing of Jingle Bells and the traditional Golden Kettle competition this year, we were pleased that so many of our loyal donors ‘attended’ and supported this special event.
The virtual event was videotaped in the home of the divisional leaders for the Salvation Army Alaska Division, Majors John and Pamilla Brackenbury, and the theme for the evening was From Our Home to Yours: An Evening of Inspiration and Hope. In addition to Majors Brackenbury, the video also featured guest host, Mike Ford of KOOL 97.3 FM, Captain Peter Pemberton - Divisional Secretary for Business, and Anna M. Pree Woods - Anchorage Advisory Board Chair. The 25-minute video provided an update on the impact of The Salvation Army’s programs in Alaska over the past year and how challenges were overcome, in addition to testimonials and statistics. To view the recorded event on YouTube, please click here.
In addition to the information provided, viewers were given the opportunity to make a donation to help keep critical social service programs active in the community during a year where the need has significantly increased. If you would like to donate towards the fundraiser please visit salarmy.us/SOG2020.