The Healthy Alaska Natives Foundation (HANF), the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium’s (ANTHC) charitable arm, will host the ninth annual Raven’s Ball on April 2, 2016 at the Hotel Captain Cook. The Raven’s Ball is one of Alaska’s premier black tie celebrations and dynamic fundraising events. This year’s ball will continue a tradition of success that benefits the Foundation and its three key initiatives: improving medical care; strengthening wellness and prevention efforts; and promoting healthy village environments.

One of the 2016 Raven’s Ball highlights will be the presentation of the Luminary Awards, which annually recognizes individuals for their dedication and outstanding contributions to the Alaska Tribal Health System and their communities. The Foundation Oversight Committee is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2016 Raven’s Ball Luminary Awards:

The President’s Legacy and Leadership Award will be presented to Dr. Matthew Schnellbaecher, Cardiology Department, Alaska Native Medical Center. Dr. Schnellbaecher has been a tireless advocate for expanding cardiology services in the Alaska Tribal Health System since he joined the hospital in 1996. Dr. Schnellbaecher has helped grow cardiology services throughout Alaska with the use of telemedicine, assisted with the development of the new cardiac catheterization lab at ANMC, in addition to many other critical efforts to improve cardiology care for Alaska Native people.

The Distinguished Provider Award will be presented to the Savoonga Health Aides, Norton Sound Health Corporation for their dedication to their community’s health. As the only full-time health care providers in Savoonga, the Savoonga Health Aides’ resilience and strength is put to the test on a daily basis as they are called upon to make difficult decisions, overcome significant obstacles, practice new medical techniques, and save lives in emergency situations.

The Community Spirit Award will be presented to Mike Williams Sr., Native Village of Akiak, in recognition of his advocacy for sobriety and subsistence rights. Mr. Williams is often recognized in state and national Tribal gatherings calling for a life of sobriety and fighting for subsistence rights. He is known as the Iditarod “Sobriety Musher” as he has carried signatures of people who have pledged sobriety in his dog sled during the race.

For more information on the 2016 Raven’s Ball Luminary Awards, Raven’s Ball sponsorship and table information, or the Healthy Alaska Natives Foundation, please call (907) 729-5652 or visit www.inspiringgoodhealth.org. Follow #ANTHC [xyz-ihs snippet=”Adsense-responsive”]

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