Shareholder youth, Donovan Michener, led completion of renovations to the burial grounds walkway in Tatitlek Village. As his final Eagle Scout project, Donovan worked with members of the community, as well as others from Scouting America Troop 129 during fall 2024 to complete this notable undertaking. Donovan is the son of Tanya Totemoff and grandson of original shareholder, Maxine Totemoff.
Donovan was responsible for leading all project-related planning and logistics. This included planning of the trail, coordinating all meetings, compiling detailed materials lists and obtaining approvals from The Tatitlek Corporation and IRA Council. The eight-week project culminated in hauling and laying 200 feet of walkway gravel, along with reinforcing the pathway with rock to mitigate erosion from inclement weather and use.
Donovan said the most memorable part of the project was when it all came together at the end. He remarked, “It felt great to see it all fall into place after significant planning and preparation.”
Further reflecting on the experience, Donovan shared, “My family is from Tatitlek Village, and it made me feel like a better person to give back to my community. This project was a really rewarding experience.”
The Eagle Scout designation is the highest attainable rank within the Scouts America division for youth ages 11-17. Donovan joined Scouting America in first grade and has been a member of Troop 129 since fifth grade. “This project provided well-rounded knowledge from rank to Eagle Scout and I will apply my new leadership skills to real-life experiences,” said Donovan. Troop 129 is based in Anchorage, AK.