ACTIVITIES
A CYCLE OF GIVING
Sitka ’ s Big Attractions
When visitors come to Sitka , often some of the first stops they ’ re recommended to make are to the Alaska Raptor Center , the Fortress of the Bear , and the Sitka Sound Science Center . These three organizations embody many of the beautiful things Sitka has to offer . And while some of those elements are clear to the naked eye , like the unique wildlife and scenic landscapes , other factors that make these organizations special aren ’ t always as well-known , like their year-round support and contributions to and from the community .
ALASKA RAPTOR CENTER
In Sitka , the concept of community extends beyond the people . Here , community encompasses the locals and visitors , the wildlife , the buildings , and the environment . For the Alaska Raptor Center , a bird hospital and sanctuary that has helped over 5,000 birds , community support is one of the ways their nonprofit is able to stay open year-round . “ We benefit from community support in hundreds of ways ,” says Executive Director Jennifer Cross . “ For example , Sitka Sound Seafoods and locals donate supplies , fish , and other wild game , such as Sitka black-tailed deer , from their freezers for the birds .” The Alaska Raptor Center continues this cycle of giving by waiving admission fees in the off-season and treating and caring for injured birds all year . During their busier time of year , about May through September , they see close to 80,000 tourists as they spread knowledge about their mission , Alaska ’ s raptors , and their habitats .
BROWSE LEARN ANNUAL MORE EVENTS
Visit our website for more info about Sitka ’ s biggest attractions and activities .
20 | VISIT SITKA MAGAZINE