indigenous wisdom summit and four directions ride information!

INDIGENOUS WISDOM

Valuing Indigenous wisdom is one of the central themes to our mission.

This wisdom informs our activities and decisions and is done in consultation with guidance from our First Nations friends, in the spirit of honoring and education.

We learn of Hózhó, the concept of the Beauty Way- a way of living in balance with the beauty, harmony and well-being of all life from our Navajo friends, and of Mitakuye Oasin (we are all related) from our Lakota Friends. 

Indigenous wisdom from all corners of the earth teaches us that water is life, the power of the circle, that respecting and learning from ones elders is a sacred duty and that we must tend to the land today so that those who will live on it in seven generations will have a beautiful and thriving Unci Maca (Grandmother Earth).
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We believe that today's modern society as a whole desperately needs exposure to these Indigenous lessons, values and ways of life if there is to be healing as a People and a planet. As such, we strive to integrate the teachings from Indigenous wisdom into all of our programs and ways of operating. 

Cultural presentations and opportunities are integrated into our events and volunteer service trips.  When available, they can also be scheduled for your school or community organization, email us at info@thetipiraisers.org. There is no fee.

In alignment with the Indigenous wisdom of reciprocity and gift economies, all Tipi Raiser's events and programs are FREE. We believe that those who join us on our mission receive the gift that is inherent in that experience and that they will give back to the best of their ability - in this way, we can all stay in balance.   
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"When a society loses the sacred - when everything has a monetary value, the commoditization of human life cannibalizes itself." Basil Brave Heart

​Grants and donations subsidize presentations, Gen7 Youth activities and volunteer service trips.

​Volunteer Service Trips

Another way Indigenous wisdom is shared is through joining us for a free Volunteer Service Trip.  

These take place on reservations across the region as well at our centralized base camp in Sedalia, CO.

​These can be designed to fit the schedule of your particular group and customized trips combine cultural experiences, service and recreation. If you belong to a school, university, business, church, etc. and would like to arrange a Volunteer Trip for your community/group please contact us to discuss scheduling and how best to customize a volunteer trip for your group.

​The Tipi Raisers is a Community Grounded in the Following Traditional Indigenous Values from the First Nations and Around the World:

​Unangwvaasi (Hopi)- Prayer  •  Ukuhlonipha (Xhosa)- Respect
Karuṇā करुणा (Hindi)- Compassion  •  Doohahooch'íídgóó (Diné) - Honesty
Sukupikunna (Quechua)- Generosity • Wahwala (Lakota)- Humility  •  Tʉsu’a-pʉ (Ute) - Wisdom

Immerse in Indigenous Wisdom:

Discussions with Elders
Volunteer groups sit with elders and learn about their spirituality and values, Indigenous wisdom, ceremonies, customs and the truth around historical events.

Horseback Riding
Ride with Indigenous guides as you learn about their connection to the “horse nation” and how the Sunka Wakan (Sacred Dog) has been an integral part of their culture for generations.

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Tipi Raising
With the careful guidance of our Native consultants, volunteers learn not only the proper way to raise a tipi but they learn the significance of each aspect of this sacred dwelling.  The number and placement of the poles and the positioning of the door (to the east) all hold meaning. The interplay of storytelling, history and spirituality all weave together in the raising of a tipi.

Community Dinners and Games
Occasionally volunteer groups will host or attend a community dinner in which we share a meal with the community, play, socialize, cook and clean together. These dinners are a great way to connect with one another – sharing stories, playing traditional games, learning about each other’s lives and making new friends.

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Drumming / Singing / Traditional Dance 
In Native cultures the drum, regarded as a living entity, holds great cultural and symbolic power. It is often seen as a sacred protector and the heartbeat of their people. When possible, volunteers will have an opportunity to learn about the history and current day significance of the drum and traditional dance in Native cultures.  

Supporting Lakota Artists
Native arts and crafts reflect their rich cultural heritage. Artists are invited to visit our volunteer groups to display and sell their art, conduct live demonstrations as well as teach the history and significance around their chosen medium. Bead-work, quill-work, paintings, jewelry and moccasins are some of the art forms that are shared. Supporting these artists through purchasing their art is an important part of their livelihood on the reservation.