From an Alumna

The word philanthropy was not something I grew up understanding or practicing. With a single mom raising two very active girls, running her engineering business and dog mushing professionally, we never had free time. It wasn’t until I was 18 that I applied and got accepted to volunteer as a mentor and Big for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska, and I quickly learned about the importance of giving back to our community. This initial experience was so impactful that I then started to seek out additional organizations to support — volunteering for the Boys & Girls Club, Alaska Brain Injury Network and Circle K (Kiwanis) Club on the UAF campus. These experiences ignited such a passion for serving others that upon transferring to UAA, I chose to pursue the Certificate in Civic Engagement in addition to completing my bachelor’s degree. I did not just want to stamp my volunteer punch card; I wanted to learn what it meant to be civically engaged and how to lean into my interests, education and skill sets to make a lasting impact in communities across Alaska.

To give your time, talent or treasure is often thought of as the definition of philanthropy. In our state, the nonprofit sector makes up a significant part of our economy. This sector relies on individuals, foundations, organizations and businesses to provide financial, in-kind and volunteer support. This collective effort of philanthropy not only impacts our neighbors today, but will for generations to come.

I am eternally grateful to UAA and to the many community members and organizations that fund scholarships for education. Scholarships supported my ability to not only pursue a degree, but several degrees. These programs gave me the foundation of education and created community connections that have allowed me to thrive personally and professionally.

My civic engagement program not only taught me a more powerful way of thinking about philanthropy, it continues to inspire my efforts to encourage others to give back. I implore each and every one of you to reflect on your values and what is important to you. To quote my favorite boss and philanthropist Karla Jutzi, “Find an organization or cause that will help you live out these values.” Philanthropy, after all, is not a one-way street — the personal benefits of volunteering and donating can be just as powerful as the impact they have on others.

UAA is an incredible representation of philanthropy, as a beneficiary and an organization giving back to Anchorage and Alaska. If you are interested in contributing, please join me in making a financial investment in the UAA Alumni Scholarship fund or reach out to the UAA alumni organization to learn how you can volunteer.

In service,

Jenny Di Grappa, B.S. ’14, C.T.1. ’14
Director of Philanthropy, Food Bank of Alaska
Board Member, UAA Alumni Association

Back to Issue