AKNG Child and Youth Program Fall Festival celebrates community, youth empowerment

JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska - Alaska National Guard Child and Youth Program members welcomed the autumn season by holding their second annual Fall Festival Sept. 13 at JBER. Approximately 260 local residents attended this year's event, which included 51 volunteers, among them 10 youth council members.

The National Guard Memorial Park, located next to the Alaska National Guard armory, served as the grounds for games and activities, giving Guard families and children an opportunity to enjoy the fall season and learn more about the resources and programs offered by the Child and Youth Program and its partner organizations.

"It's super important to be out here to connect families and kids and give them an opportunity to meet people who are in the same position as them," said Suzie Mauro, lead Child and Youth Program coordinator. "Relationship building is the goal, and we want people to understand that they have a community of people there for them, especially during events like deployments or other times of need."

Mauro also highlighted the value of the youth program's volunteer roles in shaping young people.

Annabelle Slinker, a 14-year-old West Anchorage High School student and second-year volunteer, said the Fall Festival is her favorite annual event, and she enjoys seeing families having a good time. She praised the program for helping her grow as a person and as a young leader.

"The youth council has helped all of us grow and become better leaders," Slinker said. "We've had instruction on professionalism, public speaking, and how to effectively engage with the community we serve."

Youth council members played a major role in the festival's success, stepping into leadership roles that challenged them while supporting younger attendees. Sixteen-year-old Zoe Mauro, a second-year council member and third-year volunteer, said she values the impact she can have.

"I chose face painting because it's something I love doing and I love seeing the kids and their personalities," she said. "It's really the kids that make me volunteer. I like knowing I'm making an impact on a kid's life."

Zoe added that volunteering through the council has introduced her to lasting friendships and opportunities she never expected.

This year's festival also included participation from community organizations, including the American Red Cross of Alaska. Board member Tommie Baker highlighted the importance of that partnership, noting the Red Cross' wide range of services for military families. One feature was the Prepare with Pedro program, which uses Pedro the Penguin to teach young children how to respond to emergencies in a fun, non-intimidating way. Children received storybooks and activities that entertained them while also building practical skills, such as fire safety, coping with stressful situations, and sharing preparedness lessons at home.

"It's important for Guardsmen to know the Red Cross is available to them," Baker said. "We're building well-prepared leaders and helping the kids be more aware of all the opportunities available."

As the Child and Youth Program continues to grow, organizers stress the long-term impact of youth involvement. Mauro pointed out that experiences like leading a booth at the festival can translate into college applications, personal growth, and future careers.

From colorful face paint to new friendships and stronger community ties, the Fall Festival represents more than a seasonal celebration. It's an investment in Alaska's military youth and the Guard families they support.