Championing Hope: Rachel Olson’s Journey to Transforming Lives in Alaska
Contributed by Jessica Jones-Stotler
Reach907
In the heart of Alaska, where the rugged beauty of the Mat-Su Valley meets the deep-rooted challenges faced by at-risk youth and struggling families, one woman’s mission has reshaped the future for countless lives. Rachel Olson, founder and executive director of REACH 907 | Resilience Behavioral Health, has dedicated over a decade to creating a safe space for children and families in crisis, providing trauma-informed mental health services and hope where it is often in short supply.
Recently inducted into the prestigious Who’s Who in America, Olson’s work stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and community. Over the past few years, she has also been recognized with the 2024 Top 40 Under 40 Outstanding Professionals Award by the Alaska Journal of Commerce and the Alaska Governor and First Lady’s Volunteer of the Year Award in 2019, further cementing her impact on the state’s nonprofit and mental health sectors. Additionally, she championed REACH 907 and Resilience Behavioral Health in successfully achieving Council on Accreditation (COA) status, demonstrating her commitment to high standards in service delivery.
From Passion to Purpose: Rachel Olson’s story is deeply personal. She started her work running trauma-informed camps for youth, recognizing the immense impact these programs had on children facing adversity. Seeing the transformation in these young lives, she felt called to go deeper. This vision led to the development of clubs and mentoring programs, providing year-round support beyond the camp setting. By 2021, Resilience Behavioral Health was launched, and today, the organization serves over 50 clients, continuously expanding to meet the growing needs of the community. Already, Olson and her team are dreaming of the next layer of support to further impact lives.
The vision of REACH 907 is to see all Alaskans know they are loved and cared for. The mission is to restore, empower, and strengthen Alaska’s at-risk youth and their families. Olson explains, “We want to intervene; we want to stop that cycle and change the trajectory of the next generation. We want to see these kids come out of these things they've experienced and break off those things, the lies that they come in believing. And have the truth: that they have value, they are loved, and they are a child of God. That they are believed in, and they have great potential. And to see them grow up and the next generation is different than the former.”
Transforming Lives Through Trauma-Informed Care: At its core, REACH 907 is more than just a nonprofit; it’s a movement. The organization operates on the principle that healing happens through relationships, understanding, and consistent support. Olson and her team use Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), a research-backed approach that acknowledges the effects of trauma on brain development and helps caregivers and professionals create environments where children can thrive. Beyond her leadership role, Olson has opened her own home to over 42 foster children, providing love and stability in ways that have left a lasting impact. Her work as a therapeutic foster parent has only deepened her understanding of the challenges vulnerable youth face and the desperate need for organizations like REACH 907.
Overcoming Challenges & Expanding Reach: Like any transformative effort, the road to success has not been without obstacles. REACH 907 has faced funding limitations, staffing shortages, and the ongoing challenge of meeting increasing demand for services. Yet, Olson’s unwavering commitment has propelled the organization forward, securing grants, forging strategic partnerships, and expanding outreach efforts to ensure no child or family is left behind.
This past year, Olson spearheaded a new initiative aimed at expanding trauma-informed day services, ensuring that children receive consistent care, education, and therapeutic support. “We are not just addressing trauma; we are rewriting stories,” Olson emphasizes. “Every child deserves a chance to break free from cycles of abuse, neglect, and despair.”
A Call to Action: As REACH 907 continues to grow, Olson remains focused on the future. With the rising mental health crisis, particularly among children and teens, the need for sustained community investment has never been greater. “To truly make a difference, we need everyone—businesses, faith communities, policymakers, and everyday citizens—to step up and be part of the solution,” Olson says. “Healing is a community effort.”
For those inspired by Olson’s story and the mission of REACH 907, there are many ways to get involved. Volunteering, donating, and advocating for trauma-informed care are just a few ways to ensure the work continues.
Rachel Olson’s journey is a testament to the fact that one person’s dedication can ignite a movement. From a simple vision to an organization that now serves hundreds annually, her impact is undeniable. And with the recent recognition of her work on a national scale, her story serves as an inspiration—not just for Alaska, but for communities everywhere looking to create lasting change.
To learn more about REACH 907 or to support its mission, visit www.reach907ak.org.