As many of us know all too well, addiction is a significant issue here in Alaska. The Christopher Walden House of Hope’s mission is to foster hope and recovery through community, offering healthy ways to address addiction through understanding and compassion.
Christopher Walden himself was one of my and my husband’s best friends. He was a successful realtor, but he was also a beloved son, husband, brother, and friend to many.
We fondly remember him with his family’s hard work in founding the House of Hope to offer critical recovery resources across Alaska, with the hope that no more families will endure the heartbreak of losing a loved one to addiction.
Every life is worth saving, and it’s my family’s privilege to help the Waldens achieve their mission as friends and team members. I serve on the board of directors, my husband serves on several committees within the House of Hope, and our son’s middle name is Christopher in his honor.
On August 9, the Christopher Walden House of Hope’s Hilltop 5k took place, which was a fun run or hike up and down the Hilltop Ski Area here in Anchorage. The Hilltop 5k raised funds for the House of Hope. As the 6th annual fun run, it was one for the books!
My staff members took part in the run (I spectated from the sidelines), and this annual event means a lot to my husband and me in honoring the legacy of our dear friend. I miss him each day that passes, but seeing how his family has rallied to make a change in our community is incredibly inspiring.
The Walden family is near and dear to our hearts, and seeing how they transformed grief into action to ensure no one else in our community felt the heartache they had is a feat worth celebrating.
I heard the views from the top were awe-inspiring for the runners that made it to the top of the ski area, and I know that Chris would have found them incredible too.
To see what the Christopher Walden House of Hope can do for you or your loved ones dealing with addiction, please don’t hesitate to visit their website and explore their resources.
