Striking a balance with the Foundation’s board
March 24, 2026
Rasmuson family members and community leaders who bring perspectives from every corner of Alaska ultimately shapes the Foundation’s work.
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Our mission is simple, to empower Alaskans to help each other. Since our founding in 1955, we have worked hard to improve the lives of Alaskans through grant programs and initiatives that people can rely on.
The grandson of Elmer Rasmuson and great-grandson of Jenny Olson Rasmuson, Adam Gibbons tells the story of the family’s remarkable legacy in Alaska, the lessons passed on from generation to generation and his hope for the future.
Our Foundation
We are committed to our founders’ belief in hard work, giving back and helping Alaskans help themselves. We support initiatives to improve life in Alaska, provide grants for projects large and small and bring together people with special knowledge and insights to address challenges.
Our History
When Swedish immigrants Jenny Olson and Edward Anton Rasmuson arrived in Yakutat at the dawn of the 20th century, no one could have imagined the extraordinary impact their descendants would have on Alaska. The Rasmuson family story is interwoven with the growth and prosperity of Alaska, from territorial days to the present.
Our Board
Our accomplished, compassionate board of directors typically meets twice a year to discuss strategy, investments and achievements, and to consider large grants and other significant expenditures. Members offer their ideas, perspectives and expertise while providing direction to our team.
Our Team
A diverse, creative and energetic team of visionaries, specialists and community leaders handles Foundation grantmaking and partnerships. Our team members each bring a vast range of life experiences and strong, impactful voices on housing, homelessness, health care, the arts, community development, recreation, food security, law, civil rights, Alaska Native language and culture and local and tribal government — virtually every aspect of Alaska life.
Employment Opportunities
Interested in joining our team? View our job postings here.
Contact Us
Have a question or want to connect? Contact us to reach our team.
Our 2025 Annual Letter to Alaska
March 11, 2026
Last year marked 70 years of empowering Alaskans to help each other and, over the years, we have awarded more than $570 million in grants across Alaska.
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Individual and Distinguished Artist Awards Open to Alaska Creators
March 5, 2026
Fellowships and Distinguished Artist open March 10. Please join us for our informational webinar on March 13.
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Regional Convenings offer opportunity to share local opportunities and challenges
March 4, 2026
Virtual Regional Convenings (March 12) gather nonprofit, Tribal, and community leaders to share challenges and ideas from across Alaska.
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