Our Staff Volunteers

Not only is our entire organization devoted to helping Alaskans achieve their goals in education and employment, but our individual staff members are committed to our community as well. Once a quarter we encourage members of our team to take a paid day to volunteer with their favorite community organizations. Here are some recent stories directly from our staff members:

I worked alongside Covenant House Executive Chef and Food Services Director Shawn Dinkins preparing and serving breakfast and lunch to approximately 60 Covenant House youth and staff members. I also participated in a Culinary Program class Chef Shawn has created to teach cooking for personal use and employment skill. Students were three youth who were learning how to make Panini sandwiches, testing their own creations and sharing with each other and with staff members. Public transportation was the means of getting around for the day to assess the challenges and barriers some of Nine Star’s youth interns, clients, and staff may face in getting around solely using public transportation. Throughout the day I utilized transportation modes of driving, walking, riding the bus, and catching a ride with someone. A long and educational day.

Ronni Weddleton

Finance Director

I enjoy volunteer days so much. It’s great to get to take paid time off of work and use it toward volunteering. The 4th and 5th graders campaign was a fun experience! I got to interact with students that were running for Pres., VP, Secretary, Sergeant at Arms, etc. Assisted students to hang their posters along the hallways, prep for assembly, and provide many positive feedback to the students. I’ve also volunteered many times at Food bank of AK which is always a wonderful way to share my time to assist, especially during Thanksgiving.

Luz Chavez

Work Services Case Manager

I volunteered at Until That Day Church in Eagle River doing Spring Cleaning; washing windows, vacuuming, dusting window sills & shelves, and other tasks. I really worked up a sweat. I learned that due to my services the administrator of the church and schools was able to focus on other work instead of her normal cleaning duties. The Church expressed appreciation, and I was very happy to be able to offer my service to our community. Thank you Nine Star for the opportunity.

Hui Sun Carlson

Job Developer/Coach