A Year of Hope in Metlakatla

A Year of Hope in Metlakatla United in Resilience: Our Community’s Journey Through Crisis and Recovery

Metlakatla, a small and tight-knit community in Alaska, has always been a place where people rely on each other. Despite the challenges that life brings, there’s a shared belief here—hope. This hope seems to shine brightest during times of crisis. The world has witnessed it many times, such as when wildfires tore through California, driven by the fierce Santa Ana winds. Communities pulled together, strangers became friends, and amidst the ashes, hope blossomed.

Similarly, when devastating rains and floods struck North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida, hope was there. People helped each other rebuild, showing that no matter the scale of the disaster, the human spirit can rise above it. This same spirit thrives in Metlakatla, where the bonds of community run deep.

One winter, a beloved local fisherman faced a crisis. His Fishing Vessel, essential for his livelihood, was severely damaged in a storm. The news spread quickly through the town. Without hesitation, the community mobilized. Friends, neighbors, and even those who only knew him in passing came together to help. They donated time, money, and materials, working tirelessly to repair the boat. In this collective effort, they found more than just the means to fix the vessel—they found strength in unity and a reaffirmation of their shared values.

This sense of community is evident in the rebuilding of the William Duncan Memorial Church (WDMC). The big church, a cornerstone of Metlakatla, faced significant damage, but the will to restore it was unwavering. Every brick laid and every beam raised was a testament to the community’s resilience. As the structure began to take shape again, so did the hope in everyone’s hearts.

Yes, 2025 is set to be a year of coming together—a time to focus on what is good. The people of Metlakatla have shown that no tragedy is too great to overcome when faced together. This year, they’ll continue to find the good in each other and in their shared experiences, making it a year to remember.

As the new year dawns, Metlakatla stands as a beacon of hope and unity. The stories of rebuilding, helping hands, and unyielding support serve as reminders that when a community pulls together, anything is possible. Here’s to 2025—a year of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of community.