November is National Native American Heritage Month, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona is proud to celebrate the rich and diverse culture, traditions, contributions, and histories of Native people across Arizona throughout this month and beyond. BBBSAZ recognizes we are on the ancestral homelands of the Akimel O’Odham and Piipash people and proudly serves our surrounding Native American communities, youth, families, and volunteers.
We are excited to highlight several of our ongoing partnerships and events that connect and elevate our agency connection and service to our surrounding Native American communities.
Partner Spotlight – Gila River Police Department and Boys & Girls Club of the Gila River Indian Community – Sacaton
BBBSAZ began partnering with the Boys & Girls Club of the Gila River Indian Community (Sacaton) in 2012 and the Gila River Police Department in 2017 to serve the youth in the Gila River Indian Community with mentors as part of the “Bigs with Badges” initiative. Bigs with Badges is a unique opportunity to connect first responders with youth in the community to engage with each other in a positive way. Youth may also naturally learn more about various potential career paths through their interactions with their Big in law enforcement.
Partner Spotlight – Wells Fargo Native Peoples Connection, Employee Resource Network Volunteers
BBBSAZ was excited to have the Wells Fargo Native Peoples Connection Employee Resource Network volunteer at our recent Paul’s Car Wash Event for the first time and looks forward to building this partnership and potential opportunities, including financial literacy education for our Littles.
Event Spotlight – Agency Open House – Native American Heritage Month Youth Hoop Dancing
BBBSAZ will host an open house event celebrating Native American Heritage Month featuring local Native Youth Hoop Dancers. Matches will have the opportunity to learn about the art and cultural significance of hoop dancing from several local youth hoop dancers while engaging in a fun and interactive experience.
Thank you to our community partners who assist and support our agency in providing culturally relevant programming, and services to our Native American youth, and communities.
