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FROM THE DESK OF ED - Winter 2019 Newsletter

12/24/2019

 

The Evolution and Growth of a Dynamic Organization
Story by Joseph Seidenberg, Executive Director

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Ironically, we’re back to a starting point of sorts, when our founder, Robert Young, heard about tribal elders freezing to death on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, home of the Oglala Sioux Tribe.   So moved by the plight of Katherine Red Feather, he organized his friends to build her a new home, which planted the seed that would eventually grow into who we are today.   Fortunately, we have had several donors and grants over the past year that have helped us develop a new DIY Healthy Heating class, an alternative healthy heating community demonstration site, and the installation of new heating systems in a handful of homes.  As we look to the future, we will continue to solicit support as we expand these efforts, in hopes that all people in our partner communities have access to healthy heating options in their homes.   

Of course, it is not just our programs that evolve, but our staff as well, as you will read in the stories that follow.    In July of this year, I took the reins as Executive Director, after spending eight years in program development positions within the organization.  My own path to Red Feather involved a deep interest in humanity, and a belief that no matter our geography, religion, political views or economic status, we are all connected and should strive to support each other as we endeavor to survive in this chaotic world.

Having worked in the remote corners of West Africa (hand-in-hand with Muslim and Christian communities) and the bustling city of Nairobi, Kenya, I purposefully found my way to the southwestern United States.   It was here that I connected with our native communities, who have so many beautiful attributes and whose teachings are of great benefit to our global community.  Sadly, they have also endured many injustices and traumatic hardships.   Despite this, they keep on thriving and evolving as people.  They are not the only native communities to have encountered such a reality. 

On a recent, much-needed vacation to Australia, I had the chance to learn more about the aboriginal communities there.   Facing much of a similar plight to Native Americans, such as genocide, forced assimilation and theft of their homelands, they remain resilient.  I was amazed to see outside the Sydney airport, next to the Australian National Flag, an equivalently sized Aboriginal Peoples Flag.  Let’s not pretend to think that having such a flag indicates all is well for Aboriginal Australians or that they live in a world free of prejudice or economic, social, and environmental injustice.    However, let their flag be a beacon, reminding us that all people are equally entitled to a healthy and harmonious life. 

As the year comes to a close and we soon begin yet another, let it be filled with visions of hope and excitement for stories untold.  Endeavor to continue spreading goodwill to all.   We recognize that many of our supporters have already donated all they can during the year, but for those who are able we ask that you consider Red Feather in your year-end giving.  

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If you would rather contribute in other ways, one of the simplest things you can do is share our work more broadly with your family, friends and colleagues- for as our family grows, so does our impact.   And, while our volunteer programs are not as robust as in years past, you can still let us know of your interests by giving us a call or visiting our volunteer page here.  

Wishing all of you a peaceful and prosperous holiday season.
​Sincerely,   ​

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Joe Seidenberg, Red Feather Executive Director

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2717 N. Steves Boulevard, Suite 8, Flagstaff AZ 86004
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© 2023 Red Feather Development Group ​​
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:​ The Red Feather program office sits in an area that is sacred to over 14 local tribes, including the Diné, Hopi, Havasupai, Hualapai, Zuni, Pueblo, and Kaibab-Paiute peoples. Some of these nations are represented among the Red Feather staff, and some not. We humbly acknowledge this area’s Indigenous nations, original stewards and Native descendants who will forever know this place as home. We share a responsibility to recognize and acknowledge the people, cultures, and histories that make up our community. *Adapted from the Flagstaff City Council land acknowledgement developed by the Indigenous Commission
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If you have a disability that limits your ability to access our facilities, please contact us so we can arrange for an alternative meeting location. See our ADA access plan here. 
This institution is an equal opportunity provider. 

  • Who We Are
    • About Us - Board, Staff & Sponsors
    • Nations We Serve
    • Media & Press
    • Financials & Newsletters
    • Careers
    • Blog
  • What We Do
    • Our Work
    • Education
    • Native Home Resource Network
    • Healthy Home Energy & Safety Improvements
  • Take Action
  • Services
    • Application for Home Repairs
    • Other Healthy Home Services (Native Home Resource Network)
    • Online Education Resources
    • Community Partners & Resource Lists
    • Contact
  • Donate