Posted: March 26, 2009
(Juneau) - Leadership of the Alaska State Legislature and the Denali Commission, in partnership with the Federal Executive Association, have announced the opening of the "Alaskan Clearinghouse," an office dedicated to helping Alaskan communities and non-profit groups navigate the grant opportunities available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
Each of the partnering organizations will provide a staff member to the Clearinghouse, which will open on Friday, March 27 in Anchorage.
"The Alaskan Clearinghouse will provide a needed service to Alaskans who are asking questions about what is available. Our legislative offices have been inundated with calls from communities who do not want to miss out on the grant opportunities in the ARRA," Senate President Gary Stevens, R-Kodiak, said.
The Alaskan Clearinghouse is considered a short-term project, not to exceed six months, but that may change depending on need and as grant deadlines continue to be announced.
"This federal stimulus package offers a unique opportunity to bring economic development to areas across the state. Partnering with the Denali Commission, we will be able to help Alaskans get the most out of the ARRA," House Speaker Mike Chenault, R-Nikiski, said.
"With all the confusion that exists around the stimulus money, Alaskans need a central location to call where they can learn what is available and how to apply for the funds," House Finance Co-Chair Mike Hawker, R-Anchorage, said. "The office is not going to be equipped to write grants for projects, but rather point interested parties in the right direction and get them on track with forms and applications."
"A number of these grant opportunities will only be available for a short time and Alaskans need assistance so we don't lose the window of opportunity," Senate Finance Co-Chair Bert Stedman, R-Sitka, said.
The office will be housed at the Denali Commission Offices at 510 L Street, Suite 410 in
Anchorage. The Alaskan Clearinghouse can be reached at 1-888-480-4321.
To contact Senate President Stevens, please call 1-907-465-4925.
To contact House Speaker Chenault, please call 1-907-465-3779.
To contact Rep. Hawker, please call 1-907-465-4949.
To contact Sen. Stedman, please call 1-907-465-3873.
To contact the Denali Commission, please call George Cannelos at 1-907-271-1414.
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