Brave Heart Volunteers is a nonprofit organization established in 2001 by two nurses and several community members, who longed to have hospice and palliative care services available in Sitka. Originally founded as Sitka’s Faith in Action, the name was officially changed to Brave Heart Volunteers in 2007, to more closely align with their Mission to provide nonmedical care, companionship, and respite to those facing loneliness, grief, and end-of-life. The name change also reflects a desire to honor our Tlingit-given name, Yee gu.aa yáx x’wán, which means Be of Brave Heart. Yee gu.aa yáx x’wán are the parting words of encouragement to one who is facing a challenge, like a warrior going into battle. It also points to the deep connections between our care receivers, volunteers, and partners, as we bravely confront life’s trials together.
As a heart-based organization, we aim to alleviate suffering through social, emotional, and educational support. Our volunteers keep vigil at the bedsides of those who are dying, provide caregiver respite, and companion elderly homebound residents who live with profound loneliness. BHV also provides bereavement support, community education, and outstanding volunteer training on end-of-life care and the companioning of elders. We recognize that people need to be seen and heard, to know they matter, and they are not alone in their pain. Our volunteers yield to those needs and aspire to truly see, listen, and serve others with kindness.
For over twenty years, BHV has provided free services to Sitkans, and like most nonprofits, we rely on the generosity of donors, fundraisers, and grants to meet our expenses. Because these provisions are ever-changing, the Brave Heart Volunteers Endowment Fund was established in 2013 through a substantial gift from David and Marge Steward. The Fund helps safeguard the longevity of BHV and will substantially support operations for years to come. Please consider contributing today. Your financial support will allow us to continue helping others through some of the most challenging times of their lives.
For more information about Brave Heart Volunteers, please visit our webpage at braveheartvolunteers.org or call (907)747-4600.
To Donate
Donate by credit card using the link below or make your check payable to Juneau Community Foundation. Please note the fund name in the memo field. Mail to: 641 W. Willoughby Ave., #206, Juneau, AK 99801. Please call us at 907-523-5450, or email info@juneaucf.org for information on donating stock, wiring funds, establishing a Fund, gifting from your IRA, or naming the Juneau Community Foundation in your Will.
