The Kinship Center Partnership
The Kinship Center began through the vision and collaboration of Lauren Nikolas of Wo’takuye Oyate Kinship Nation Inter Tribal Network, Lara Nelson of Leháŋl Wičhíčhaǧapi, and Diversion Specialist Kelsi Vinger. Together, our organizations created a juvenile diversion alternative for Native youth rooted in peer mentoring, cultural connection, and community-led support.
Today, The Kinship Center continues to grow through a network of passionate organizers, community members, and cultural knowledge keepers. Together, we are creating space for Native youth and families to connect, find support, celebrate culture, and strengthen community. Through this collective work, we are building a strong and lasting Indigenous presence in Aberdeen
Our Partners
Bridging communities, creating belonging
Wo'takuye Oyate is a Native led collective community effort built in partnership with other organizations. Our goal is to connect with local businesses, existing support networks, institutions, and individuals in a way that centers traditional values. This means coming together "in a good way" to develop intentional, mutually supportive relationships based on reciprocity and respect. We hope that centering these values will have a positive impact on the community by teaching what it means to be a good relative.
We are deeply thankful for our generous partners and supporters. They have allowed us to not only see this project come to life, but continue to grow and expand.
