Thanks for Challenge Grant to help arboretum project
The Friends of the Jensen-Olson Arboretum has received a Community Challenge Grant Award from AARP. We were one of 340 applicants out of 3,500 to receive this award.
We are very please to use this award toward accessibility at the Jensen-Olson Arboretum
In 2023 we invited residents from the Pioneer home to the Arboretum, and quickly realized that wheel chairs and walkers do not do well on the grassy uneven surface.
We went right to work and asked Linda Kruger, the AARP Juneau Community Action Coordinator for help and she pointed us in the direction of the Community Challenge Grant Program.
We will begin the construction of a 96-foot hard surface pathway from the Gardener’s shed to the Grand old Apple tree and bench. This allows visitors a commanding view of the gardens as well as Pearl Harbor.
This is a phase one of a project that will create accessibility around the vegetable garden connecting to the path slated for construction this summer. We are pleased to extend visitation opportunities to our elders and others with mobility challenges.
Thank you AARP for evaluating our need and supplying some of the funds needed to construct our new pathway.
Friends of the Jensen-Olson Arboretum
Thanks to Sealaska for supporting rural elders in Southeast Alaska
Together with our dedicated staff, volunteers, and the amazing individuals we serve, we extend our deepest gratitude to Sealaska for its exceptional support in 2023 and 2024. Your generous contributions allow us to provide meals, transportation, and essential services to elders at eight senior centers in Southeast Alaska. Supporters like you empower Catholic Community Service to assist our aging population with resources for seniors and caregivers, enabling elders to maintain their independence and to stay in their home communities as long as possible. During these years of heightened need, Sealaska’s support has been a vital lifeline, ensuring our elders lead healthy and engaged lives. Thank you for your generosity and unwavering commitment to our communities!
Erin Walker-Tolles
Executive Director
Catholic Community Service
