Explore Our Programs
Native Elder & Youth Grants
The Wóžu Healing Gardens Native Elder & Youth Grant Program is a direct-distribution fund rooted in the understanding that a healthy ecosystem flows nutrients to where they are most needed. This fund moves resources directly to the people at the heart of our community: our Elders and our youth.
5% of every dollar raised through our crowdfunding campaigns is set aside for this fund. It is distributed by our board of directors, community members who carry the responsibility of stewardship with humility and accountability.
This is a redistribution of resources back to the people whose knowledge, presence, labor and care make Wóžu Healing Gardens possible.
5%
of every dollar
Native Elders
Elders carry knowledge, language, ceremony, and relationship that cannot be replaced. This fund honors their irreplaceable role by providing direct material support for their everyday needs and dignity.
What It Funds
Basic needs support - food, medicine, utilities, household essentials
Medical and wellness - costs, transportation to appointments, supplements, care supplies
Housing stability - rent support, home repair essentials, winterization
Education access - classes, workshops, or learning materials requested by the Elder
Native Youth
Our youth are the future stewards of culture, land, and community. This fund helps with financial barriers that keep young people from accessing education, development opportunities, and the cultural grounding they deserve.
What It Funds
Basic needs support - food, clothing, household essentials for youth and their families
Tuition and school - supplies enrollment fees, books, materials, uniforms
Apprenticeships & skills - programs trade training, cultural apprenticeships, workshops
Youth leadership development -camps, gatherings, delegations, and cultural learning travel
College and vocational pathways - application fees, test prep, certification programs
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Elder Grants
Identifies as Native / Indigenous
Is directly connected to Wóžu Healing Gardens (participant, community member, or family of participant)
Self-identifies a need (no proof of income required)
Nominations may also come from a Wóžu board member, staff, or trusted community member
Youth Grants
Is 25 years of age or younger
Identifies as Native / Indigenous or is a direct family member of someone served by Wóžu
Is connected to Wóžu's programming, or nominated by a community member
For education grants: must provide a brief description of how the funds will be used
Note: Wóžu Healing Gardens does not require tribal enrollment documentation. We recognize that community and identity are not reducible to paperwork.
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Self-Nomination
Any eligible Elder or youth may reach out directly to any Wóžu board member or to our general contact to share their need. You do not need to justify or explain extensively. Saying "I need help with [X]" is enough to begin the conversation.
Community Nomination
Any community member, Wóžu staff member, or board member may nominate an Elder or youth they know to be in need. The nominator should have a relationship with the person and be able to confirm basic eligibility. The nominated person will always be contacted directly before any funds are distributed.
To Connect with the Fund
Reach out to any Wóžu board member directly, or contact us at:
info@wozugardens.org
We will respond within 5 business days. Requests received during active campaign distribution cycles will be prioritized in that cycle's disbursement.
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We are accountable to the people we serve, not to a donor class or institutional reputation. The following practices keep this fund honest:
Annual public reporting on total funds raised and total distributed
Anonymized grant summaries shared with Wóžu community members after each distribution cycle
Board members who have conflicts of interest (family members, close relationships) recuse themselves from relevant decisions
Community members may request a meeting with the board at any time to discuss fund stewardship
No board member may receive personal compensation from this fund
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Board Stewardship Principles
Transparency the total fund amount is publicly announced with each crowdfund campaign
Community input board members are expected to be in active relationship with the community and listen before deciding
Dignity first no application process should make a recipient feel they are begging; we design for ease and grace
Speed once a decision is made, funds are distributed within 14 days
Confidentiality recipient identities are protected unless the recipient chooses otherwise
Distribution Process
Campaign closes and total raised is confirmed.
5% is transferred to the Native Elder & Youth Grant Fund.
Board convenes within 21 days to review requests and nominations.
Recipients are contacted and needs are confirmed directly.
Funds are sent directly to recipients (cash, Venmo, check, or direct bill payment, recipient's choice).
Total distributed (anonymized) is reported to the community within 30 days.