The Chugiak-Eagle River Foundation (CERF) is joining the Alaska Community Foundation’s (ACF) Affiliate Network, connecting local generosity with a broader statewide commitment to strengthening Alaska communities for generations to come.
CERF was built on a simple premise: when people invest in the place they call home, everyone benefits. For years, the foundation has backed that belief with scholarships, grants, and community philanthropy that have made Chugiak and Eagle River stronger places to live and grow.
As part of ACF’s Affiliate Network, CERF will keep its locally led approach while gaining the administrative support and investment expertise of a statewide community foundation.
“Joining the ACF family allows us to focus more fully on the work that directly impacts our community—raising funds and investing them back into Chugiak and Eagle River,” said Kai Binkley Sims, Board Chair. “Combining our strong local roots with ACF’s track record felt like the right path forward.”
The timing reflects a natural inflection point: as longtime board members move into new chapters, CERF’s leadership saw an opportunity to build on what’s working while ensuring the organization remains strong well into the future.
That future is grounded in the foundation’s history. CERF’s scholarship program carries forward the legacy of Glen and Marylou Briggs, whose belief in young people continues to shape what’s possible in this community. And the foundation recently crossed a meaningful milestone — surpassing $1 million in assets — a reflection of the long-term trust local donors have placed in this work.
“What CERF has done with locally led scholarships, grants, and community investment helps keep Chugiak and Eagle River strong,” said Alexandra McKay, ACF president and CEO. “We’re honored to welcome them into ACF’s Affiliate Network to continue supporting this community for generations to come.”
Looking ahead, CERF plans to grow its endowment, expand scholarships and grants, and deepen relationships with donors and community partners. The ACF partnership frees up time previously spent on administration, time that can now go toward the people and priorities that matter most.
For Alaska. Forever.
