Staff Spotlight 2024

At Camp Fire Alaska, employee growth and development are worth celebrating. Our employees believe in Camp Fire Alaska’s mission and daily illustrate their dedication to their profession, youth, and their community. So, in this “Staff Spotlight” blog post, we are giving staff a platform to share their experience at Camp Fire, shouting out and celebrating their professional accomplishments and development.

This is Camp Fire Alaska’s Staff Spotlight!

Nicole Richmond | Photographer

Monday, December 30, 2024

For December 2024’s Staff Spotlight, we recognize Camp Fire Alaska’s Photographer Nicole Richmond. We are shouting out her excellent work capturing photographs that elevate the quality of our storytelling. To view highlights of her work last year, check out our blog post “Storytelling Through the Camera Lens.”

“Growing up, I missed out on the classic summer camp experience, but in May 2024, I seized the incredible opportunity to capture the heart and spirit of Camp Fire Alaska as their official Photographer. Traveling to all camp locations, I captured children in action as they participated in activities, special events, and field trips. My lens frames laughter, excitement, and a sense of belonging that defines the camp experience. Through my photography, I witness firsthand the profound impact of Camp Fire Alaska’s programs on children from diverse backgrounds. I see inclusivity, creativity, and growth flourish as the organization brings its mission to life. By helping children discover their passions and interests — their “spark” — Camp Fire Alaska ignites a sense of purpose.

Storytelling through photography in the dynamic camp environment presents challenges, but I overcome them by being proactive, creative, and attentive to detail. The images I capture showcase the magic of Camp Fire Alaska’s programs. The energy, imagination, and resilience of the children and staff inspire me daily. They remind me of the importance of embracing wonder, taking risks, and nurturing curiosity. As Camp Fire Alaska’s Photographer, I am embarking on an unforgettable adventure and a rewarding experience that I treasure.”

Gloria Barnett | Family Service Program Coordinator

Monday, September 30, 2024

Camp Fire Alaska’s first ever Staff Spotlight features Gloria Barnett, Family Services Program Coordinator, who was recently promoted. She recounts her journey with Camp Fire below:

“I started at Camp Fire in November of 2021 after a HUGE career shift, ready to do something different. This was an opportunity to find change, and continue having fun and spending time with my own kids. Originally, I started as Program Staff at Abbott Loop’s Before and After School Program. Shortly afterwards, I was promoted to Assistant Site Director. Then, in the following school year, I became the Site Director at Abbott Loop.

After Abbott Loop closed, I was moved to O’Malley Elementary. Unlike my other sites, this one was larger, with over 23 kindergartners enrolled that year! For a wonderful year, I spent my time at O’Malley Elementary as Senior Site Director; and in summer, I was Until Leader at Camp Fireweed. When the Family Services Program Coordinator position became available, I was excited to apply. My personal goal is to help children that come from adverse backgrounds and this role puts me in a position where I can do that. I’m excited to see what this year brings!”

In other employee-related news, Camp Fire Alaska celebrated its annual Employee Recognition Ceremony, which featured food from Peppercini’s Catering, gifts, tenure awards, and so much more.