Adopt-a-park:
In the late 80’s, the intersection where Tastee Freez is located underwent a major renovation. When the price of oil dropped mid-construction, landscaping was cut from the funding. Rich Owens had a vision for a park on the corner, so he pounded the pavement to get donated supplies, and solicited hundreds of volunteers who would work for free (or for ice cream). Their efforts resulted in a beautifully landscaped corner. Every year, Rich coordinates hundreds of volunteer hours to keep the park planted, watered and weed free.
Salvation Army/Red Cross Drive:
When an apartment complex fire made 16 families homeless less than a block from Tastee Freez, Rich coordinated a donation effort to help his neighbors. More than $14,000 was raised for the Red Cross, and two 48 ft. semi-loads of household goods were donated to the Salvation Army.
Teacher take over day and Ice Cream Socials:
Tastee Freez allows the teachers from local schools to ‘take over’ Tastee Freez for a day. Tastee Freez, also donates ice cream to the schools for their Ice Cream Socials. The sale of the ice cream at the socials, as well as the proceeds from Take Over day raises over $10,000 for local schools every year.
Operation Santa-Claus:
Every year, Rich Owens participates in Operation Santa-Claus in conjunction with the Alaska Air National Guard. Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, (and their helpful elves) are flown to remote Alaskan Villages to distribute toys and treat them to ice cream sundaes. Rich donates over $5,200 worth of sundaes to this fun and gratifying project.
Beans Café Food Drive:
Every year, Tastee Freez solicits donations for Bean’s Café, to help feed the homeless and hungry on Thanksgiving. Up to 2,000 pounds of food and 275 turkeys have been donated annually since 1994.
Anchorage Convention and Visitor's Bureau
School Business Partnership
