A Journey Back to Work as Hydaburg Harbormaster

After years away from the workforce, returning to steady employment can feel impossible, especially after addiction and loss. In Hydaburg, tribal citizen Henry Alameda’s journey shows how determination, community support and opportunity can help re-engage the workforce with a lasting career.  After experiencing significant setbacks in his life, including the loss of his CDL, a tugboat career and stability due to addiction, Henry made the decision to begin rebuilding his life one step at a time.

 In May of this year, Alameda found a path forward through Tlingit & Haida’s General Assistance (GA) program. By June he had a work plan for employment. 

With encouragement from his GA Caseworker, Roberta Patten, Henry committed to 80 hours of community work service and chose to volunteer with the City of Hydaburg. He previously worked with the City as Harbormaster. Roberta said he was determined to show the City he’s ready to be a dependable employee once again. His dedication and strong work ethic quickly stood out once again. Harbor staff and city council members took notice and before long, Henry was offered a full-time position.

Tlingit & Haida’s GA office on POW opened in October 2022 with Roberta serving as a case worker. “Henry showed tremendous perseverance,” said Roberta. “All he needed was a spark of opportunity, and once he had it, he did the rest. We’re incredibly proud of the commitment he brought to his community work service and the way he continues to serve Hydaburg today.”

Henry proudly serves as Harbormaster for the City of Hydaburg now, marking his first time back in the workforce since 2020. His journey reflects both the power of personal determination and the impact of supportive tribal programs that encourage citizens to take the next step toward healing and self-sufficiency.

“My story is a lot like Job in the Bible,” Henry shared. “I lost everything because of addiction—my CDL, my tugboat career, almost my life. But I got clean and started rebuilding everything I lost, brick by brick. Tlingit & Haida helped get me off the couch and motivated me. July was the first time I’d worked since 2020. I showed up every day for my 80 hours of community work service at the harbor, and it led to a full-time job. If you lose everything, you can get it back with faith. I put Jesus first in everything I do now.”

Henry’s success is a testament to what can happen when determination meets opportunity. His story is a powerful reminder that with faith, perseverance and support, transformation is possible.

The General Assistance program has 8 case workers ready to work with tribal citizens. Start your journey by emailing GeneralAssistance@tlingitandhaida.gov or calling 907.463.7332.  

About the General Assistance Program

The General Assistance program provides short-term financial support to eligible Alaska Native and American Indian individuals to help cover essential monthly needs such as food, clothing, shelter, and utilities. GA is limited to verified monthly expenses and cannot be used for debts or non-essential costs. Each participant works with a caseworker to create an Individual Self-Sufficiency Plan (ISP) that outlines clear steps toward achieving employment and long-term independence. The program’s primary goal is to support clients in building stability and moving toward self-sufficiency.