N'chi Wanapum Canoe Family
Seasons ago, members of Warm Springs came together to begin reintroducing the ancient art of canoeing and the spiritual connection to water as our people had been since time immemorial. the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs now own a 36’ canoe, named N’chi Wana. Dedicated on March 27th, 2010, the event was a very successful, emotionally moving, and a historical day for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. The Project is now the N'chi Wanapum Canoe Family and Project and have since been meeting every weekend to discuss the journey ahead. They have participated in Canoe Journeys '10 and '11, have appeared in numerous cultural settings, have spurted an inspirational interest in cultural and traditional practices, and are gearing up for their second canoe. Jefferson Greene serves as the Coordinator
Cultural Revitalization
The Washut Revival Movement (A Spiritual Practice of The Columbia Plateau Natives) is about strengthening our traditional ways of worship through humbly seeking cultural knowledge and wisdom within the community of Warm Springs. The unity of traditionalists of the Longhouses is the ultimate goal and vision. Jefferson Greene serves as a Co-Coordinator
Cultural Revival (Sep 11, 2010)
The Warm Springs Market Cultural Mural
The Warm Springs Market Cultural Mural project consisted of a large 30 foot wide mural that represents, serves, and educates the present and future communities of Warm Springs. The mural took 3 days to complete with the help of Young tribal members who turned out to help with the mural. The mural was designed and orchestrated by Toma "Haup" Villa. Jefferson Greene served as the Grant Writer
The Warm Springs Market Cultural Mural (Jun 23, 2010)
Sweathouse Construction
The Sweathouse Construction was a long time dream and vision of family members. While recovering from emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual distress, the idea finally took life in the fall of '09. Advised by several spiritual leaders of the community and direction from family members, the Sweathouse Construction became a family project and is still used today on a near weekly basis.
Sweathouse Construction (Nov 23, 2009)
The West Hills Beautification Projects I, II, & III
The West Hills Beautification Projects were one of a kind community gatherings that were deeply needed and best of all, very much appreciated. In the end, the results were well-groomed sidewalks that provided youth and pedestrians with safer sidewalking conditions and drivers the capability to see around overgrown corners and intersections. Community members came together to help get the word out, donated food, beverage items, garbage bags, weeding tools, solution, and gloves. The first project took place in the West Hills Neighborhood, and the Trailer Park Neighborhood, and then finally, both Miller and Elliott Heights neighborhoods. Volunteers ranged from 8 years old to elders with an average of about 75 people per project. Jefferson Greene served as the Coordinator
Beautification Projects I,II, & III (Oct 24, 2009)
The Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Opposition
The Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Opposition shed light on the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Dept. for their consideration of a designated OHV recreational area along the lands of the Warm Springs Reservation. It was projected to deplete habitat, animals, timber, watersheds, and increase trespassing. A campaign began on behalf the Warm Springs Tribes to reconsider the proposal and the State Department was heavily targeted until it was no longer considered. Jefferson Greene served as the Tribal Liaison
Off Highway Vehicle Opposition (Aug 23, 2007)
The 33rd Annual Northwest Indian Youth Conference
The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs (CTWS) hosted the 33rd Annual Northwest Indian Youth Conference (NWIYC), bringing in nearly 1,000 participants. The Conference featured a parade, food, basketball tournament, expressive arts & crafts, film festival, dancing, singing, educational workshops on success, leadership, cultural awareness, a pow-wow, and a beautification project just to name a few. The mission of the conference was to provide support and connect with American Indian youth students throughout our nations by helping students & youth maintain their individual traditional tribal customs for a successful future. The theme was ‘The Ancestors Will Be Our Strength for the Future’. The event was considered to be a true success with an entire community coming together for the future generations. Jefferson Greene served as the Chairman.
1st Annual Naimuma Pow-wow
In the Spring of '07, the 1st Annual Naimuma (Relatives) Powwow was introduced to the Northwest by the United Indian Students in Higher Education (UISHE) at Portland State University (PSU). At the time, the community was persistent in wanting to have multiple pow-wows, yet the organizational arm of the group was dwindling down in the midst of education. So the group re-organized, strategized, and decided to start one large pow-wow that entailed a mission and relevance to the local tribes and ancestors. Through traditional powwow music, dance, food, and arts & crafts, the pow-wow intended to provide a meaningful experience for the community, bringing all people together in kinship and in culture. Jefferson Greene served as the Co-Coordinator
United Indian Students in Higher Education (UISHE)
The United Indian Students in Higher Education (UISHE), is the pursuit of educational enlightenment. UISHE members are both contributors to, and recipients of the educational process. While working towards individual degrees, UISHE students have the opportunity to participate in university activities and local Native American cultural and social gatherings. UISHE keeps students and the community informed about current Native American activities and concerns. Involvement with the Native American society enables UISHE members to come together and help meet the needs of our indigenous people. Jefferson Greene served as the Co-Coordinator
M.E.CH.A (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicana/o de Aztlan)
M.E.Ch.A. (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicana/o de Aztlan) is a National student organization that unites Chicano students in their quest to enhance the development of La Raza through education. M.E.Ch.A. believes that political involvement and education constitute the avenue for change in our society. M.E.Ch.A. is a focused organization of committed leaders and members who are role models for our community. M.E.Ch.A. builds and demonstrates strong character in mind and body to accomplish change in attitudes and behavior of our families, friends, and leaders. Jefferson Greene served as a Coordinator for the Mt. Hood Community College Chapter