Aha Abenaki Helping Abenaki

Overview

Aha Abenaki Helping Abenaki is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization associated with the Nulhegan Band of the Coosuk Abenaki Nation. The organization is primarily focused on charitable, religious, and educational programs aimed at supporting the Abenaki people.

Mission and Purpose

The mission of Aha Abenaki Helping Abenaki is multifaceted, centering on the preservation of Abenaki culture, community awareness, and various charitable endeavors. It supplies educational resources tailored to meet the specific needs of the Nulhegan Band and other Native American students. Additionally, AHA provides community members with essential items, particularly healthy food, during times of need. It also emphasizes educating Nulhegan Band citizens and other Native Americans about traditional, organic agriculture, and sustainable living practices.

Programs and Initiatives

A key initiative by Aha Abenaki Helping Abenaki involves promoting food security within the Abenaki community. This includes the Abenaki Bison Project, which aims to establish a herd of bison to supplement the tribe's food supply. Each mature bison can provide up to 600 pounds of meat, which is distributed free of charge to Abenaki families. The project collaborates with other organizations to manage and develop the herd in New Hampshire.

In addition to food security, AHA contributes to educational and cultural programs. It works to strengthen the community by engaging in projects that preserve and celebrate Abenaki traditions and heritage.

Funding and Grants

Aha Abenaki Helping Abenaki has received notable grants, including a $50,000 grant from the Tides Foundation in 2019. The organization continues to seek fiscal sponsorship through grants, public funds, and private donations to support its various initiatives.

Affiliations and Partnerships

AHA is closely affiliated with the Nulhegan Band of the Coosuk Abenaki Nation, one of the four state-recognized tribes in Vermont. The organization partners with other groups, such as Holistic Roots, to enhance its programs and expand its impact.

Leadership

AHA's leadership includes Chief Donald Stevens as president, Nicole St. Ogle as treasurer, and Lucy Cannon-Neel as secretary.

Legal and Tax Status

Aha Abenaki Helping Abenaki operates under the EIN 84-1704125 and is recognized as a U.S. nonprofit organization.

[1] https://www.holistic-roots.org/programming-1 [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nulhegan_Band_of_the_Coosuk_Abenaki_Nation [3] https://www.grapevine.org/nonprofit/0jS3LpJ/Aha-Abenaki-Helping-Abenaki [4] https://abenakitribe.org [5] https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/aha-abenaki-helping-abenaki,841704125/