Tlingit & Haida Public Safety was honored with the 2026 Pathways to Recovery Distinguished Service Award during the 2026 Pathways to Recovery Conference in recognition of its leadership and commitment to strengthening public safety, overdose prevention and recovery efforts across Alaska.

The award recognizes the work of Tlingit & Haida Public Safety’s First Responders Addiction & Recovery Education Program and highlights the impact the team has made in expanding overdose prevention, recovery education and first responder training throughout the state.

The nomination specifically recognized Tlingit & Haida’s Statewide Tribal Opioid Conference, which brought together Village Public Safety Officers (VPSOs) and first responders from all 10 regions of Alaska through two conference sessions. By partnering with emergency medical services, behavioral health professionals, treatment providers and law enforcement, the program delivered critical training on opioid awareness, overdose response, trauma-informed care and emerging drug trends. The conference also fostered meaningful collaboration among agencies, strengthening the ability of first responders in some of Alaska’s most remote communities to support individuals experiencing substance use disorders and overdose emergencies.

This statewide recognition reflects the dedication, professionalism and compassion of Tlingit & Haida’s entire Public Safety team. It underscores the organization’s commitment to working alongside partners to strengthen public safety, expand access to recovery education, and improve overdose prevention efforts. Through collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to community well-being, Tlingit & Haida continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact in the lives of Tribal citizens and communities across Alaska.

The Distinguished Service Award celebrates organizations and individuals whose leadership, collaboration and service have advanced recovery efforts and strengthened the resilience of communities across Alaska. This recognition underscores Tlingit & Haida’s ongoing commitment to providing innovative public safety programs and building strong partnerships that improve health, safety and well-being throughout the state.