Our elders pass on traditional ways of knowing. They teach us to observe the natural patterns around us, like those of The River. We remember the seasons of the past, work hard in the present, and plan for the future. We acknowledge CRNA is the result of the vision our elders held to and the efforts they put forth and we are thankful as we remember, work, and plan.
Koht’aene
Our People Today, Tomorrow,
and Forever.
Community Health Aide Program established
IHS authorized the Alaska Native Health Board to provide the Alaska Area Native Health Service with input for its programs.
Formally incorporated non-profit
Copper River Native Association was formally incorporated as a non-profit organization, one year following the passage of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA).
First Annual Meeting
The motto posted on the wall behind Robert Marshall begins: Coming Together is a Beginning
First Organizational Chart, August 16
Katherine McConkey
Katherine McConkey begins her career of CRNA service as an administrative assistant in the late 70’s.
CRNA’s First Logo
The newly created CRNA logo represents the service area of the organization.
Copper River Native Dancers
Copper River Native Dancers practice traditional songs and dances through the Johnson O’Malley Program. A program designed to pass on traditional language, dance, song, and handicrafts, including the making of regalia.
Traditional Chief Ben Neeley
Traditional Chief Ben Neeley would interpret English to Ahtna for Elders during Annual Meeting in the early years of the organization. As an advocate and leader he held many positions. Seen here, Ben Neeley with Senator Lisa Murkowski in 2008.
Showcasing tribal members’ talents
Photo includes from left to right: Martha Jackson, Emma Bell, Elizabeth Pete sing at the 10th Annual Meeting. Early Annual Meeting celebrations often showcased tribal members’ talents.
CRNA Wildland Fire Crew is Established
The fire crew was the first fire crew established in Alaska outside government agency oversight. In future years the team upgraded to “Hot Shots,” a term that refers to highly skilled fire crews.
1986 Annual Meeting
The Villages Are CRNA
Tuition Assistance Program
Employees benefit from training and scholarship programs, increasing organizational ability. Pictured, Anna Bell-Hand graduated from AVTEC through CRNA’s Tuition Assistance Program. Elizabeth Pete also graduated (Not Pictured).
Charlene Nollner
“I remember the prevention technicians program… Trips, dancing, basketball, one time we even climbed up the hill and drew the horizon… and I remember feeling safe for that amount of time.” Charlene Nollner -Future Board President
Swimming Safety Program
The Swimming Safety Program was a hallmarkof the Copper River Region in the late 80’s through the early 90’s. More than 75 children per summer participated in learning to swim and conduct water rescues that involved above ground pools.
Subsistence fishing rights
Katie John vs the United States of America Katie John wins subsistence fishing rights after three decades of litigation in defense of the Ahtna people.
Safety in the 90’s
Teaching First Aid and Outdoor Safety.
Computers at CRNA
CRNA Learning Computers in the 90’s.
Drug and Alcohol Addiction Program
By 2003, 97 clients had completed the addiction recovery program at the Hudson Recovery Camp.
Robert Marshall Building
Constructed in Copperville The Newly Constructed Robert Marshall Building allows for service expansion.
COVID-19 Building Constructed
A separate testing facility is constructed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
First ambulance at CRNA
CRNA, in partnership with Ahtna Inc. purchases their first ambulance. The ambulance is not used to respond to 911 calls at this time.
