I read with interest Bill Popp’s op-ed about Hilcorp’s acquisition of BP’s Prudhoe Bay assets and liked his positive attitude on what it could mean for our economy. From a nonprofit perspective, I have done a little research on Hilcorp. I like what I hear and see about their philosophy of social responsibility, charitable giving and volunteerism.
Here at Special Olympics Alaska, we have already benefited from their presence as volunteers and fundraisers at some of our events, helping our athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities enjoy sports and physical fitness. They’ve already shown themselves as a community-minded business, and we look forward to getting to know the employees of Hilcorp better as volunteers, neighbors and friends.
However, I probably speak for many in the nonprofit community that we will miss BP. Going back decades, they have invested heavily into social programs and nonprofit organizations across the state. As for Special Olympics Alaska, BP has been a regular sponsor and partner that we could count on year after year in supporting the training of our athletes. In fact, we did a look-back of 11 years and realized that BP’s total charitable contributions to Special Olympics alone were over $500,000. Wow! That’s some true philanthropy, and all I can say is thank you, BP!
Thanks for your investment in Alaska. Thanks for your support of so many nonprofit organizations in Alaska. And to the hundreds of BP employees who have helped Special Olympics Alaska out as volunteers over the years, thank you too. The staff and athletes have come to know and love you for the kindness in your heart. For those sticking around after the acquisition, yeah for us; or as they say around here, “Oh yeah.” For those leaving for other parts unknown, we wish you well, but know that there are Special Olympics chapters all over the world that would welcome you with open arms. Thank you for all you have done for our community.
— Patrick Reinhart
Interim CEO, Special Olympics Alaska
Anchorage
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