The Friends of Sheldon Jackson Museum are pleased to announce the impressive completion of the “Match the Texans” fundraiser in which all donations made between February 1 and April 30 were matched dollar-for-dollar! This wonderful opportunity was made possible through the philanthropy of Carvel Glenn and Randall Lamb of Texas.

The Friends of SJM are in awe of the outstanding generosity of Carvel and Randall. They have truly been steadfast supporters of the Museum and the Friends since first experiencing the Sheldon Jackson Museum in 2018. After making the largest single financial donation in the history of the Friends in 2021, they wanted to again contribute, but now in partnership with the local community. The “Match the Texans” campaign grew out of this idea and allowed us to connect with our members, Sitkans, Alaskans, and local organizations about the significance of this incredible Alaskan resource. We sincerely thank Carvel and Randall for all that they have done and continue to do for the Friends of SJM and ultimately our community.

Although the fundraiser finished at $24,647.32, just a mere $352 shy of the $25,000 goal, it can still be considered a great success! Not only will the final tally still be generously matched the full $25,000, but the fundraiser certainly accomplished its mission of inspiring Sitkans, Southeast Alaskans, and people across our state to show their support for the Sheldon Jackson Museum. In fact, about 84% of all donations came from Alaska, with about 65% of all donations coming from Sitka alone! It’s also been amazing to see the far reach and lasting impression that this Museum has had on individuals all around the country, with other donations coming from Kentucky, Washington, Wisconsin, New Mexico, California, and of course, Texas! With no single contribution over $2,500, this campaign proved that every donation makes a difference. Thank you to each and every person who contributed.

We would also like to thank the generous local businesses and organizations who contributed to this campaign. Thank you so much to the Hames Corporation, Daily Sitka Sentinel, Classic Casting Adventures, Sitka Vision Clinic, Pet’s Choice Veterinary Hospital, Sitka True Value, Cheryl Vastola of Sewing Solutions, Sitka Realty, Sitka Rotary Club, Caroll University, and The Friends of the Alaska State Library, Archives and Museum. We are so grateful for your support!

The Friends of Sheldon Jackson Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the Sheldon Jackson Museum and its unique Alaska Native ethnographic collection through advocacy, acquisition, and educational programming. Donations to the Friends may be made online at www.FriendsofSJM.com, by mail to 104 College Drive, Sitka, AK 99835, or in-person at the Sheldon Jackson Museum.

For questions, please contact friendsofsjm@gmail.com or (907) 747-8981