With winter temperatures averaging between 5 to 12 degrees below zero in the NANA region, a warm coat is more than a simple preference; it’s a necessity. In December 2016, Nicole Edwards, executive assistant, and Emily Cross, client relations director, took action when they learned individuals in the NANA region were in need of warm winter coats. Motivated by a spirit of service, Nicole and Emily coordinated with employees at the Dimond headquarters to collect coats over a one-month period.
Employees contributed new and gently used winter coats, resulting in nine boxes of approximately 70 coats for donation. Emily, a NANA shareholder, and Glenn Teets, general manager for food services in Kotzebue, distributed the coats on a trip to Kivalina on behalf of NMS.
“When we were there, it was 28 degrees below zero, with bright sun and little wind; it was bone-chilling,” said Emily. “Everyone appreciated NMS’ efforts to bring warmth to the region!”
