Maureen Kay Sims’ commitment to children, love for her family, and endless positive energy was an inspiration to all. December 12, 1954 – August 29, 1999
Maureen Kay Sims served on the Denali Foundation Board of Directors. During her tenure, the Wilderness Intensive Learning Development program called W.I.L.D. about Denali, was developed. Maureen recognized the potential for this program to reach under-served youth in Alaska and championed for its success. It was her desire to help those with limited opportunities.
Today, W.I.L.D. is a program conducted in conjunction with several Alaskan social service agencies bringing developmentally disabled youth and adults to the wilderness of Denali National Park. Working with small groups, the program focuses on addressing respect, teamwork, and self-confidence. Visit our W.I.L.D. about Denali webpage to learn more.
The Maureen Sims Memorial Endowment was created to honor Maureen’s memory. It ensures that W.I.L.D. will be sustainable for years to come.
Currently the endowment dividends provide scholarship money for participants who otherwise could not afford to attend. Scholarships are offered to partner agencies that either encourage participants to apply, or decide to which individual the scholarship will be granted.
As the Maureen Sims Endowment grows, dividends will be put toward the actual cost of running the program, making W.I.L.D. sustainable indefinitely. Denali Education Center, and its board of directors, is committed to growing the endowment through active fundraising. Contributions will come from individuals and organizations that support the goals of W.I.L.D. about Denali.
If you would like to make a lasting contribution to the W.I.L.D. about Denali program with a gift to the Maureen Sims Memorial Endowment, click here. On behalf of all those who have benefited from the W.I.L.D. program over the years, we thank you!
