About the Program
Summer of Heroes is a partnership program between Alaska Communications and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska, promoting education, awareness, and support for youth development programs throughout the state. Summer of Heroes includes two main components - a youth recognition and scholarship award, and a cause-related sales promotion.
Meet the 2026 Hero Honorees
Youth from across Alaska were selected to receive a $2,000 scholarship and recognition in his or her community.
The 2026 youth heroes are:
Alexander Olson of Nenana; Savannah Overbay of Minto; Tessa Davis of Kodiak; and Adam Kaufman, Liam Cuddy, Annabelle Slinker and Grace Morton of Anchorage.
What Defines A Hero?
A hero can be any Alaska resident between the ages of 6 and 18 who is making a positive difference in their community. Examples include, but are not limited to, the following types of efforts:
- volunteering or raising funds for a cause,
- making a difference in school through education or sports,
- making a significant contribution to his or her community,
- considering others’ needs before their own, or
- inspiring others to take action.
Youth Recognition Program
Studies show that youth who are engaged in community service tend to do better in school, avoid risky behaviors, and maintain positive relationships with adults and peers.
As part of the Summer of Heroes, Alaska Communications works with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska to recognize a handful of youth who are making a difference in their local communities Selected heroes receive a $2,000 scholarships and special recognition in their local community.
Making a Difference $15,000 Donation
Alaska Communications recognizes that youth education and development programs, such as the programs provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska, are critical to helping children succeed in life.
During the Summer of Heroes, Alaska Communications commits to donating a portion of proceeds from every new Home Internet or Business Internet subscription. In 2026, Alaska Communications donated $15,000. In the 16 years of the Summer of Heroes program, Alaska Communications has donated more than $250,000 to organizations supporting youth.
The Story of Our 2026 Logo
Each year, the Summer of Heroes program selects a youth hero from the previous year and uses that inspiration for the current year’s logo. The 2026 logo highlights 2025 hero Lola Swanson of Seward.
Be Involved Contact Us
To stay up-to-date with the Summer of Heroes program, connect with Alaska Communications on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.
For questions on the Summer of Heroes program, please contact:
Heather Marron
Manager, Corporate Communications
Alaska Communications
Heather.Marron@acsalaska.com
(907) 564-1326
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska
Info@bbbsak.org
(907) 433-4600
