Our Founder

Ben Kolendo’s journey started in Alaska, where his family’s roots have shaped his values and ambitions. He graduated from Career Tech in 2024 and has spent the last six years serving as a student representative, including several years on the school board. During that time, Ben worked hard to advocate for students and improve the education system. He has extensive experience reviewing budgets and curricula, and attended Curriculum Council meetings and visited schools to see how curricula were being implemented.

Ben has also worked with the Alaska Health Department under Governor Dunleavy for the past five years, advising on youth drug and alcohol abuse prevention. This experience has made him one of the top advisors in the state, contributing to several drug prevention task forces and working with organizations like the Alaska Health Department Mental Health Board and the Advisory Board on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse. 

Currently, Ben serves as the Chair of the Alaska Health Department’s Children’s Mental Health Initiative (CMHI) Committee, where he leads efforts to expand access to youth mental and behavioral health services statewide, Through the CMHI, he works to fund community programs, improve crisis response, and strengthen cross-agency collaboration to build a sustainable system of care. His focus on mental wellbeing, substance use prevention, and family support help ensure Alaska‘s youth have the resources they need to thrive.

Ben continues to collaborate with representatives, senators, and other key leaders to ensure a healthier and safer future for Alaska’s youth.