Wasilla, Alaska – Thrive Mat-Su Coalition (Thrive) has been honored with the 2025 Bert Hall Award for Commitment to the Health of the Community. The “Bertie” is presented annually by the Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) to an individual or group that consistently exemplifies commitment to improving the health and wellness of Mat-Su residents. Thrive, along with United Way of Mat-Su and Youth 360, was presented with the award at the MSHF Annual Meeting on Monday, June 9, 2025.

“Mat-Su youth are a core focus for the Foundation and our community partners,” said Esther Pitts, MSHF President and CEO. “Thrive, United Way of Mat-Su, and Youth 360 have been working collaboratively across our region to create positive impact on local systems and support for youth. Because of this phenomenal work, our youth are growing up in an environment with greater access to social connectivity, healthy activities, and programs that support their critical developmental years.”

Thrive was established 18 years ago with the goal of reducing youth substance misuse and improving community wellness in the Mat-Su Borough. Youth 360 is committed to providing safe and invigorating environments for young people to explore, study, and flourish. Together, Thrive and Youth 360 have built a system of positive youth development through a collaborative approach. They coordinate and promote a variety of out-of-school opportunities in the Mat-Su. They work with numerous community partners—including faith-based organizations, nonprofits, local businesses, behavioral health providers, school districts, volunteers, and other coalitions—to serve Mat-Su Borough youth and make long-term investments in their well-being. Thrive, along with Youth 360, are both under the umbrella of United Way of Mat-Su.

“We are deeply honored to be selected for the Bert Hall award,” shared Stephanie Allen, United Way of Mat-Su Executive Director. “It means so much to United Way of Mat-Su, Thrive, and Youth 360 to be recognized for our commitment to Mat-Su youth and families. We have such incredibly joyful jobs. It truly is a blessing to get to work with youth, families, and fantastic community partners. Thank you so much to Mat-Su Health Foundation for this recognition and award.”

The Bert Hall Award is named in honor of Mat-Su resident Bert Hall, who helped put together the Valley Hospital Foundation Board of Directors. Bert has served Alaska in many capacities, including as a Mat-Su Regional Medical Center board member, associate director of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, commissioner of the Alaska Department of Health and Human Services, director of health and social services for the Municipality of Anchorage, and as the Alaska liaison to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Bert also served as president of the Alaska Public Health Association, represented Alaska on the Governing Council of the American Public Health Association, and served on the Alaska Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.

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About Mat-Su Health Foundation: Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) is the official business name of Valley Hospital Association, Inc., which shares ownership in Mat-Su Regional Medical Center. In this capacity, the MSHF board members and representatives actively participate in the governance of Mat-Su’s community hospital and protect the community’s interest in this important healthcare institution through board oversight. The MSHF invests its assets into charitable works that improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in Mat-Su. More information is available at www.healthymatsu.org.