The AVCP Regional Housing Authority recently concluded its highly successful 21st Annual Housing Conference, held in Bethel, Alaska, on April 17-18, 2024. Under the resonant theme, “Building Stronger Homes, Building Stronger Communities: Honoring Tradition, Embracing Change,” the event provided a dynamic platform for Tribal delegates and partners from across the Y-K Delta and the state to meet and exchange invaluable insights. Partners were able to showcase strides in housing development and climate resilient activities, and Tribal delegates were able to provide direct feedback on the issues they are facing in their respective communities.
Representing 52 Tribes in 48 communities within the Bethel and Kusilvak Census Areas, the conference welcomed approximately 30 official Tribal delegates who actively participated in-person. The first day commenced with a touching invocation by ONC Traditional Chief Louie Andrew, followed by the ceremonial posting of colors by the BRHS JROTC, and a vibrant display of traditional Yup’ik dancing by Ayaprun Elitnaurvik.
Afterwards, the day unfolded with a series of engaging sessions, spotlighting invited partners who showcased their initiatives and groundbreaking advancements in housing infrastructure and climate change resilience. The panelists included respected representatives from organizations such as the Rural Alaska Community Action Program (RurAL CAP), the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC), the Alaska Climate Adaptation Science Center, the Cold Climate Housing Research Center (CCHRC), the Association of Alaska Housing Authorities (AAHA), and Enterprise Community Partners.
Day two commenced with a compelling keynote address delivered by Alaska HUD ONAP Administrator Dr. Greg Stuckey, setting the tone for a day marked by organizational updates and reports from AVCP RHA’s management and leadership. The end of the conference featured prerecorded legislative addresses from esteemed figures, including Congresswoman Mary Peltola, Senator Lisa Murkowski, and Senator Dan Sullivan, underscoring the significance of collaborative efforts in addressing housing challenges.
“The conference served as a pivotal forum for robust discussions on various housing-related topics, facilitated by subject matter experts and Tribal representatives. It provided a unique opportunity to foster meaningful connections and cultivate collaborations towards building resilient communities in our region.” – AVCP RHA, President/CEO Peter Evon
In essence, the 21st Annual Housing Conference exemplified AVCP RHA’s unwavering commitment to empowering communities, honoring traditions, and embracing transformative change in the pursuit of sustainable housing solutions.