Gwyneth Geiger Anchorage high school student Gwyneth Geiger, age 15, started her own business last year called The Peckish Porcupine. Her goal is to offer handmade products such as beeswax wraps and reusable lunch bags, to name a few, to cut down on one-time-use products. This winter, she designed a reusable mesh veggie and fruit bag to cut down on the plastic bag used at the store and was looking forward to selling them at the Girdwood Forest Fair and other markets this summer. During COVID-19, she has retooled her sewing operation and is making masks full time, along with completing her homework. Said of Gwyneth Geiger, “She is making masks to donate and sell, and loves the idea that she, too, can help her community in need.”
Artie Gorash Great Land Christian Church Artie Gorash is a student at the University of Alaska Anchorage, an employee at the Great Land Christian Church, and a combat veteran who served for 11 years in the U.S. Army as a combat medic. During his service in Alaska, he began to volunteer with the Alaska Chapter of HOPE Worldwide, and in 2019, Artie volunteered over 27 hours with the Food Bank of Alaska, and he and HOPE Worldwide volunteered a combined 720 hours. COVID-19 has impacted more Alaskans than ever, and the Food Bank of Alaska would not be able to continue their mission of meeting the additional food need in the community without volunteers like Artie. Said of Artie Gorash: “He sees a need in society and he wants to be a part of the movement to address these needs. He wants to build a community that works together to lift others up. His goal is really to share the opportunities that are out there for others to serve.”
Ruth Guardo A Touch of Home Childcare & Learning Center Ruth Guardo runs A Touch of Home Childcare & Learning Center, and during COVID-19 has been providing daycare services for essential employees, as well as providing lunches for children in need. She is constantly looking for resources to help her families and staff, and has her door open to listen and provide advice to all who come to see her. Said of Ruth Guardo, “(She) goes on and beyond to ensure people are safe and happy.”
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ACHIEVEMENT IN BUSINESS