Jackie Novell, drawn to Homer by fishing and community, is creating a legacy of giving back through the Homer Foundation.
Like many stories in Alaska, Jackie Novell's follows the fish. "After retiring in Anchorage, we first lived in Talkeetna but made so many trips to Homer to fish, we eventually moved to Homer full-time to enjoy the many amenities of a larger fishing community," Jackie shared.
Over the past 30 years. Jackie has fully immersed herself in the community, volunteering for the Chamber of Commerce and finding her "Homer family" at the American Legion.
I've always been philanthropic because I believe we need to help one another, and so many people need help. especially today," Jackie continued. When it came time to plan her estate, she turned to the Homer Foundation.
"It's important to me to give first to the community that is my home, and I trust the Homer Foundation. I like knowing that the Foundation is a network of local people who have worked hard to be successful and are now giving back to the community. And I appreciate knowing that there is a board of trustees who believe in that mission.
I also feel at ease having created a trust document. knowing that my estate will be handled smoothly by those I've entrusted and that my money will be spent wisely."
The Seeds of Support program successfully awarded $100,000 in matching funds, helping local nonprofits grow their endowments and strengthen long-term community impact.
A lively annual gathering brought the community together for great food, conversation, and music.
Amid federal funding cuts, Homer nonprofits are showing resilience - raising emergency support, growing endowments, and continuing to strengthen their future through the Seeds of Support program.
Jackie Novell, drawn to Homer by fishing and community, is creating a legacy of giving back through the Homer Foundation.
This is the eighth of nine short historical reminiscences to mark the 30th anniversary of the Homer Foundation, Alaska’s first community foundation. This series was produced by The Foundation and written by former board member Tom Kizzia. It was first published in 2021.
This is the third of nine short historical reminiscences to mark the 30th anniversary of the Homer Foundation, Alaska’s first community foundation. This series was produced by The Foundation and written by former board member Tom Kizzia.
