October 6, 2009

Native Wellness Institute Supported By Shakopee Mdewakanton Grant

Prior Lake, Minnesota - The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community supported the 2009 International Native Wellness Gathering with a grant for up to $50,000. The Weaving Our Stories Gathering was held September 14-17, 2009, at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel.

“We support this organization and the good work that they do to help Indian people,” said SMSC Chairman Stanley R. Crooks.

The Gathering focused on men’s wellness, positive parenting, the power of positive thinking, anger resolution, forgiveness, wellness in the workplace, childhood trauma, fetal alcohol syndrome, grief and loss, youth leadership development, storytelling, and getting and staying fit.

The Native Wellness Institute exists to promote the well-being of Native people through programs and trainings that embrace the ancestral teachings and traditions. The Native Wellness Institute was founded in 2000 by a knowledgeable and dedicated group of Native individuals, including tribal leaders, committed to making a positive difference in Indian Country.

The goal of the Native Wellness Institute is to continue bringing about positive changes in the lifestyles, relationships, education, and overall wellness of Native Americans. Five main areas of focus were:

Healthy Relationships and Parenting
Youth Leadership and Development
Workplace Wellness / Staff Development
Strategic Planning, Program Development and Curriculum Development
Educational Wellness Conferences, Retreats, and Training

In fiscal year 2007 the SMSC helped fund a similar event with a grant for $31,425. For more information about the Native Wellness Institute go to www.nativewellness.com.