The 100 Horses Women's Society Inc

The 100 Horses Women's Society Inc is a United States nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering girls and young women through the transmission of ancestral and cultural knowledge of womanhood, as well as essential life skills. The society aims to enrich the lives of its members and foster a supportive network of mentorship among generations of women, including mothers, aunts, and grandmothers.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of the 100 Horses Women's Society is to encourage girls and young women to support each other by sharing and preserving ancestral wisdom and cultural traditions related to womanhood. The organization seeks to create a matrilineal leadership structure within its community, emphasizing the empowerment of women by connecting them in a sisterhood that spans multiple generations. This network facilitates mentorship, leadership development, and the fostering of cultural identity.

Cultural and Community Role

The society places strong emphasis on the revitalization and continuation of ceremonial practices and cultural rites. One highlighted program is the Isnati Ca Lowanpi ceremony, which serves as a rite of passage for young women. Members actively participate in maintaining these sacred traditions and passing them on to younger generations, thus preserving cultural heritage.

Beyond cultural activities, the 100 Horses Women's Society also engages in projects aimed at sustainable community development. For instance, some members contribute to efforts in establishing community gardens and addressing food sustainability tailored to the unique needs of 21 tribal communities, reflecting a holistic approach to community empowerment.

Organizational Structure

The 100 Horses Women's Society operates with a board of directors, including young leaders who represent the society’s values and mission. Leadership within the organization reflects a commitment to youth engagement and empowerment, fostering new generations of female leaders within the community.

Financial and Legal Status

The organization is registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the IRS, classified under arts, culture, and humanities with a focus on cultural and ethnic awareness. It has an Employer Identification Number (EIN) of 88-1125207. Financially, the organization reported revenues of approximately $218,000 and expenses around $130,000 in 2023, maintaining total assets close to $299,000 with no liabilities reported that year.

Geographic and Demographic Focus

The 100 Horses Women's Society primarily serves reservation communities, with an emphasis on Native American populations. It operates to strengthen cultural identity and leadership among indigenous girls and women, primarily within South Dakota and surrounding tribal areas.

This profile reflects the organization's dedication to cultural preservation, matrilineal leadership development, and community sustainability efforts, positioning the 100 Horses Women's Society as a significant contributor to the empowerment of Native American women and girls through heritage and education.