Many people opt to stay inside during Alaska’s long winters, and with social distancing measures due to Covid-19, many people are finding themselves spending LOTS of time at home. Staying home can lead to decreased physical activity and mental health and increased screen time or unhealthy behaviors. The Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation wants to promote outdoor activity and get people to enjoy the many recreation opportunities available in the Mat-Su during March, April, and May!
Participation in the event includes sharing (through Facebook Messenger or Email) a photo, Name/Contact, date, location, and activity. The location must be in the Mat-Su Borough. Participants will be entered into a drawing to receive items from local businesses. Participants may submit and enter into the drawing each month of the virtual event.
When does the Challenge take place?
March through May 2021
Who can participate?
All people of all ages.
Where does the Challenge take place?
Outdoors, anywhere in the Mat-Su Valley!
What do you win?
Each month of the Challenge, you may submit a photo with details (see below), and you will be entered into a drawing for a variety of prizes (see prizes below). After the drawing, a staff member of the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation will reach out to you for a mailing address.
Participants can submit photos and receive prizes each of the three months of the event. Participants may only receive one entry per month.
How do you participate?
- Submit a photo of yourself, or with friends/family/pets (with their consent), enjoying any outdoor activity in the Mat-Su, with your
- NAME
- EMAIL (MSTPF will use email to notify prize recipients)
- NAMES of anyone (or pet) in the photos
- DATE of Outdoor Activity
- TYPE of Outdoor Activity
- and LOCATION of Activity (i.e., Trail, park, city, etc.)
- Submit to the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation by email (traftery@matsutrails.org) or through Facebook Messenger (https://www.facebook.com/MatSuTrailsandParksFoundation).
If you are under 18 and would like to submit a photo entry, you must do so with a parent or guardians’ permission and include Parent/Guardian NAME and EMAIL with your submission.
The participant retains ownership of any submitted photographs. However, by submitting a photo(s) in this Challenge, the participant grants the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation the right to future use of the photo(s) without compensation. MSTPF will give photograph (s) attribution credit based on the name supplied with the submission. Participants are responsible for acquiring consent for the submission of photos with other people.
Please email traftery@matsutrails.org if you have any questions!
Download the OuterSpatial trails app to access over 3200 miles of local trails, and featured content to inspire you to get outside and play! We will be posting a variety of activities on OuterSpatial throughout the challenge. Don’t miss out on your next outdoor adventure!
Great Ways to Get Outside!
Sledding in Hatcher Pass
Cross Country Skiing at Archangel Road
Thank you to all the local businesses and organizations that donated prizes for challenge participants!
Prizes Include: $25 Gift Certificates from All Seasons Clothing Company, Handmade Hats and Scarves from Alaskiwear, 1-Night Stay at Knik River Lodge, $10 Gift Certificates to Turkey Red, $25 Gift Certificates to Moose’s Tooth, $50 Gift Certificates to Alaska Chicks, Dog Sled Swag Bag and Gift Certificate from Alaskan Husky Adventures, Free Cone Cards from Wild Scoops – Handcrafted Alaskan Ice Cream, handcrafted items from Deb’s Upcycled Designs, and a $25 gift certificate from Just Imagine Toys!
Wild Scoops – Handcrafted Alaskan Ice Cream
EASIEST WAY TO DONATE For Alaskans
While applying for their PFD online, Alaskans can choose to Pick.Click.Give. in increments of $25. All donations are tax deductible and donors will receive tax documentation from the State once their donations have been processed. Permanent Fund Dividend applications are available from January 1 to March 31, though Alaskans may choose to add or adjust their pledges online through August 31.
Apply for Funding
Grants and Event Sponsorships
The Mat-Su Trails & Parks Foundation partners with organizations and local governments on projects and efforts that expand and enhance the valley’s network of trails and parks. Find out how we can help fund your next trail, park, or recreation project!
