Anchorage, AK

During my first visit to Anchorage Alaska, I was introduced to the Alaska Dive Search Rescue and Recovery Team, a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue and recovery of missing individuals throughout the state. Whether someone is missing in Anchorage or a remote Alaskan/Indigenous village, members volunteer (completely unpaid) to bring closure to families. I also met the Alaska Mountain Rescue Group and Alaska Solstice Dogs, two SAR non-profit organizations in Anchorage that specialize in mountain rescue (common during Alaska’s summer hiking season and winter avalanches).

Hearing their stories and needs (dive rescue equipment is VERY expensive) I was eager to see how I could put my musical skills and talent to use.

As a musician, we regularly create audio and video content for our audiences. Grabbing our cameras, my partner and I began filming SAR trainings to update the organizations’ websites. Two of our videos helped Alaska Dive become finalists the Land Rover Defender Service Awards, an international contest that provides a little bit of financial relief. We also collaborated and edited the team’s statewide grants and awards. And to help the team during their fundraising auctions, I regularly donate free music lessons for public bidding. While in Alaska, I enjoy traveling with the teams, especially in support of Alaska’s premiere summer race: Mount Marathon!

Aside from artistic endeavors, I continue to volunteer and train with the teams to help out the local community and learn more about Alaska’s culture. This has led to wonderful friendships with teammates and community members.