Elders Mentoring Elders Culture Camp and Workshops

Denakkanaaga is honored to partner with the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Center for Alaska Native Health Research to hold an annual “Elders Mentoring Elders” culture camp. This project is funded by the Office of Minority Health), (Grant CPIMP231366-01-00, and CPIMP211317) through Oklahoma State University, Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity (CIIHE). The camp teaches participants traditional activities based on Athabascan values that include honoring ancestors, respect for knowledge, and wisdom from life experiences. The camp is grounded on the land, eating healthy traditional foods, and being in community. Intergenerational transmission of cultural practices and way of life adds to our overall well-being and is an essential part of keeping the culture alive and thriving for generations to come. The goal of the camp is to create a space for those 50 years and older to learn traditional ways from other Elders. It is our hope that the participants will return home and teach others what they’ve learned.

In conjunction with the annual Elders Mentoring Elders culture camp, Denakkanaaga hosts periodic workshops to continue engaging Elders’ learning and sharing of traditional values and cultural activities throughout the year. The workshops are also funded by the Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health Equity, Office of Minority Health (Grant CPIMP231366-01-00 and CPIMP211317) through the Center for Alaska Native Health Research.