For almost 40 years, Gordon Pospisil and Blythe Marston have worked to improve our community. If you ask which of them first supported United Way of Anchorage, Blythe points to Gordon.
“In 1985, I had a job at ARCO as a petroleum engineer,” he recounts. “The company was a major supporter of United Way.” Gordon began by participating in workplace campaigns and volunteering for Day of Caring. Seeing the positive impact that United Way made in Anchorage inspired him. “I eventually served as the annual ARCO campaign coordinator and that expanded my understanding of United Way, its committed staff and the breadth of its efforts.”
Gordon’s appreciation and enthusiasm introduced Blythe to United Way. Over time, their support for United Way has only grown. Blythe and Gordon have contributed to many improvements in our community. It’s impossible to list them all.
Their work has ranged from small to large-scale efforts. They’ve signed up for volunteer shifts at places like Brother Francis Shelter and Alaska Food Bank and supported Big Brothers/Big Sisters and Kid’s Kitchen. They’ve advocated for education, refugees, museums, libraries and the arts.
Gordon and Blythe have spearheaded initiatives to raise money for local projects. Their engagement has helped United Way be part of establishing:
- Lyn Ary Park playground, which is owned by Municipality of Anchorage.
- Programs to support community members who experience or risk homelessness.
- Anchorage Youth Court (AYC), which is a nonprofit organization.
AYC is particularly dear to Blythe and Gordon. It allows 7th through 12th graders accused of breaking laws to resolve their legal problems without receiving formal juvenile records. Their peers serve as attorneys, judges, bailiffs, clerks and jurors during trials and sentencings. Every young person who’s involved benefits—as does our community.
“Anchorage Youth Court needed broad support to work,” says Blythe. “United Way helped significantly.” She notes that establishing the nonprofit required soliciting organizational, financial and youth backing.
Gordon and Blythe are committed to United Way because they know that individuals’ efforts help our community.
“Our parents demonstrated that giving back—in whatever manner possible—helps create a stronger community and richer, more fulfilling lives,” Gordon says. “Getting involved early and often on focused projects yields rewarding impacts.”
Blythe and Gordon believe that when people work toward a common purpose, no matter how small their contribution, they make a positive difference.
“Working together binds us together,” Gordon says.
Blythe affirms Gordon’s sentiment. “Although many people want to help strengthen their community, they simply don’t know what to do or how to do it,” she says. “United Way is a good place to start.”
The Alexis de Tocqueville Society—a giving group comprised of households that donate $10,000 or more in one year—is honoring them for their sustained efforts in our community. Congratulations, Blythe and Gordon, for receiving the 2024 Tocqueville Community Service Award!