TCC Weekly Episode 48

Welcome to TCC Weekly, where each week we bring you the latest news from Tanana Chiefs Conference.

Welcome to TCC Weekly. I'm Sonja Cochran Huntington at Tanana Chiefs Conference. Here's a look at what's happening across the region. On Monday, July 13th, community organizations across Fairbanks will come together for the annual Elders Day of Caring, a special day dedicated to supporting Alaska Native elders through acts of service and community connection. This event is hosted in partnership by Tanana Chiefs Conference, Dinakanaga, Interior Regional Housing Authority, Doyon Limited, Fairbanks Native Association, and other community partners.

Volunteer teams with local businesses, organizations, families, and community members will be matched with elders throughout the Fairbanks North Star Borough to assist with projects like yard work, painting, household organization, technology assistance, and safety improvements. Selected elders may receive support with up to 2 household projects or tasks. While volunteers can help with many everyday needs, they are unable to provide medical care, financial management services, or pet care. Volunteer opportunities are available in 2-hour, 4-hour, and 6-hour shifts. The deadline to apply for elder assistance or to register as a volunteer is Friday, June 12th.

To learn more or apply, visit tannenachiefs.org. In workforce development news, Tannen Cheats Conference is building a trainer and vendor list for village workforce development opportunities across the region. We are seeking individuals and businesses with experience in small engine repair, carpentry, mechanics, plumbing, boiler maintenance, toilet repair, and specialized training including water and sewer operations, heavy equipment, medical instruction, CDL preparation, and confined space training. Training. Opportunities may include traveling to rural villages, hosting trainings locally, and teaching hands-on workforce skills that directly support community development and self-sufficiency.

Interested trainers are encouraged to share what they can teach, the number of students they can train, availability, estimated costs, and whether certifications or licenses are provided upon completion. For more information, contact Sean Rice, Employment and Training Coordinator, at 907-452-8251, extension 5907, or by email at [email protected]. As spring breakup continues across interior rivers, several communities are currently experiencing active flooding. Including the community of Kycook. Additional flooding remains possible in other communities as ice continues moving downstream.

Governor Mike Dunleavy has issued a state disaster declaration in response to the flooding. This activates the state's individual assistance, public assistance, and temporary housing recovery program to help support impacted families. Communities, tribal organizations, and local infrastructure recovery efforts. Registration for the State of Alaska Individual Assistance Program for the 2026 Spring Flood Disaster is open through July 11th. You can find out more and locate the application at www.tananachiefs.org.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness in our communities. At Tanana Chiefs Conference, we continue encouraging conversations centered on healing, resilience, compassion, and connection. If you are struggling through this spring season, help is available to you simply by texting 988 or by calling TCC Behavioral Health at 907-451-6682, extension 3800. I'm Sonya Cochrane Huntington, and this has been TCC Weekly. Tune in every Monday morning at 9:30 on KRFF 89.1 FM, or listen anytime on Spotify and YouTube.