Southeast Alaska Independent Living (SAIL) is celebrating its 25th anniversary and honoring two outstanding advocates at a gala in October.
SAIL’s 2018 Senior and Disability Advocate honorees are Jeffra Clough and Kim Kiefer, and the gala will take place at 6 p.m. Oct. 20 at Centennial Hall.
Clough recently retired after 25 years at Eaglecrest Ski Area, where she championed adaptive snow sports and helped streamline access to ski lessons for the general public. Today, thanks in part to her efforts, Eaglecrest serves dozens of people who use these adaptive resources during ski and snowboard season.
Kiefer worked for the City and Borough of Juneau in a variety of roles, starting with the Parks and Recreation Department and eventually serving as city manager for four years. During that time, she prioritized access and inclusion, even before the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted in 1991. Her efforts brought Juneau’s public facilities up to ADA standards, which resulted in CBJ’s recognition by the U.S. Department of Justice in 1998 as one of “the most accessible cities” they had reviewed.
SAIL Executive Director Joan O’Keefe praised the two honorees’ commitment to the city.
“Because of their leadership, Juneau is a more accessible and inclusive community to residents of all ages and abilities,” O’Keefe said in a release.
For tickets and more information about the gala, visit www.sailinc.org or call 586-4920.