Program Particulars
Sitka’s Faith in Action (SFIA), now Brave Heart Volunteers, was started informally in January of 2001 by a pair of committed volunteers working together towards a common goal.  Through a series of community meetings and concerted efforts, a group formed and expanded as others echoed the need for end-of-life home visiting, respite care, companionship visiting, and support to those who are frail, elderly, disabled, or recovering from hospitalization.  Local community members met together regularly for a year to develop a Faith In Action coalition and collectively write a successful grant proposal based on the national Robert Wood Johnson Foundation program model.  Sitka’s Faith In Action developed a working board, became incorporated, and in May of 2002, received word from The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) that their efforts had made a difference.

 Start-up funding was granted from RWJF and through similar fundraising efforts, program funds were raised from The White Elephant and other local donors. The grant funding, plus additional ongoing fundraising, supports one employee – a part-time program director, and a part-time Jesuit Volunteer.  The State of Alaska houses the Faith In Action offices in the historic Manager’s House, on the beautiful grounds of the Pioneers’ and Veterans’ Home of Sitka.  Through the affiliation with RWJF Braveheart Volunteers joined over 1,000 other similar interfaith volunteer programs in the United States.    Although the grant was considered relatively small in the granting world, the impact for Sitka is large.  The process of community members coming together at a grass roots level continues to produce benefits and growth for all involved.  Creating an interfaith, interagency coordinated volunteer home visiting service is a strengthening and unifying experience.  One of the unique aspects of Sitka’s Faith In Action is the diversity of volunteers. Even though we represent many different faiths, congregations and service groups we believe in the power of working together with the spirit of love and compassion for the common goal of helping our neighbors.  Our willingness to work together and go beyond our differences promotes tolerance, brotherhood, sisterhood and community goodwill.

Braveheart Volunteers will make a difference by providing care, companionship and simple support to community members in need, and by promoting interagency and interfaith networking.  Volunteers are fellowship, congregation, service groups and community members who wish to provide service for others from the heart. 

 The program seeks to serve those in need of home visiting and respite services, but our services are not designed or intended to replace professional medical care or compete with existing health services.

Although this type of caring is an expression of our personal faith; religious proselytizing, recruiting and attempts to convert others are strictly not allowed.  It is our work to accept and support one another, not to try to change a person’s personal beliefs. One need not have a religious or spiritual affiliation to participate as a volunteer or to receive visiting support.  There are no fees for services and no age or income restrictions. We are happy to serve people of every of race, color, lifestyle and creed. The following statements are from Sitka community members in response to the question, “Why do we need volunteer visiting and respite services here in Sitka?” Perhaps you will see your feelings or thoughts reflected in our collective community voice.....

·       “There is a large aging population here in Sitka.  As the numbers of this group grow, the health care needs grow, and the potential for unmet health care needs also grows.” ·       “Not everyone here in Sitka has family or friends who would be there for them when they are in need of help.” ·       “There are many people who seem to ‘fall through the cracks’ either because of lack of finances or they don’t qualify for services.” ·       “We could help comfort families with anxiety and fear of dealing with end-of-life issues.” ·       “These services will help not only to be of service to our neighbors, but also to bring people of diverse faiths and interests together.” ·       “Nature loves ‘reciprocity’ and this would be one form of reciprocity at its highest level – a giving and receiving gift.” ·       “Caregivers need a break so they don’t have a break-down.  Family members aren’t always able to help.” ·       “Agencies can’t necessarily take the time for the little things that make for a happy comfortable environment.” ·       “Caring for those who are dying, sick, alone or homebound is a labor of love and many hands are needed to give everyday respite.” ·       “Being the main caregivers of a chronically ill person is a physically, emotionally and financially draining job.  These people need a break and need to have others to empathize and offer help.” ·       “We need a coordinated volunteer service to offer kind, loving support and care to persons in need.” ·       “Those experiencing end-of-life will know they are not alone, volunteering will be enriched, the community will get connected, and families will receive assistance in difficult times.” ·       “The limited economy influences the ability for community members to get health care needs met.” ·      “Often the services people need are not available from agencies or care providers because of age, income, or hours of service.” ·      “We are geographically isolated from other communities and services – this joint effort would strengthen our immediate community.” ·      “People who need care and are isolated at home want to feel connected to others and the world at large, and to feel that they are still worthwhile.  Caregivers need this too.” ·      “Every person deserves to have the choice to die peacefully at home if that is their wish.  Sometimes the main obstacle to staying at home is a lack of volunteer help and respite.  We need this service to provide what could be considered a basic human right.” ·      “These things will be promoted: diversity, unity, tolerance, wellness, brotherhood, and sisterhood; it will help to eliminate prejudice, racism and nationalism.” ·      “The group endeavor of providing respite care and support will strengthen our community through cooperative effort among individuals.”

·      “We could reach out to those who are alone and need care, but do not know where to turn.”