Mukwa Dodem
"Medicine for the People"

Our Mission & Vision

Mission

Our mission is to foster a world where compassion and access to essential resources are the cornerstones of healing. We are dedicated to addressing the interconnected issues of trauma, homelessness and hunger through a holistic approach centered around medicine, empathy, community and the aspiration to establish a transformative facility or "tiny village."

Our commitment begins with the recognition that trauma, often a silent and debilitating force, affects individuals and communities in profound ways. We believe that healing is a fundamental human right and we are driven to empower those who have experienced trauma to reclaim their lives.

We address homelessness as both a cause and consequence of trauma, aiming to provide shelter, safety, and support to those without homes. We believe that every person deserves a stable place to call home, a sanctuary where they can begin their healing journey.

Hunger, a relentless companion to homelessness, further exacerbates the cycle of suffering. We understand that nourishing the body is a critical step in the healing process. Our mission includes providing access to nutritious food for those in need, ensuring that no one goes to bed hungry.

One of our key goals is to raise funds with the intention of establishing a dedicated facility or 'tiny village' that will offer comprehensive services to individuals grappling with trauma, homelessness and hunger. This facility will serve as a beacon of hope, providing a safe haven for healing, counseling, job training and community-building.

Our approach is rooted in the values of inclusivity, equity and social justice. We work tirelessly to create a supportive and welcoming community where every individual is seen, heard and valued. Through collaborative partnerships and advocacy, we strive to change policies and systems that perpetuate trauma, homelessness and hunger.

Together, we are "Medicine for the People." Our vision is a world where individuals can heal from trauma. We invite you to join us on this transformative journey, as we build a society where healing is accessible to all, and no one is left behind."

Our Team

Front from left: Mike Hagen (Ojibwe) Treasurer, Jenelle Pitlik Volunteer, Shannon Timm-Bassett (Ojibwe Name Is Nme Ekwe-Sturgeon Woman Mukwa Dodem-Bear Clan White Earth Nation Tribal Member) Founder and President

Back from left: The Late Dianne Dellwo Volunteer, Tonja McCloud-Drake (Ojibwe/Dakota) Home Economics & Traditions, Heather Jacobs (Ojibwe Leech Lake Tribal Member) Families and Youth

Chi-miigwetch (Big Thank You)!

Medicines

The Medicine Wheel is used as a holistic teaching tool. It consists of four quadrants that relate to the cardinal directions: East, South, West and North. Each direction is represented by specific teachings and emblems, such as four colors, four seasons and the four stages of life. The circle symbolizes and resembles many cycles in the natural world and is a symbol of equity.

Medicine Gardens are planted to honor the Medicine Wheel and to grow Sacred Medicines associated with directional teachings. There are four Sacred Medicines: Tobacco, Cedar, Sage and Sweet Grass. These are traditional medicines that have physical qualities for medicinal purposes, and a spiritual aspect used in traditional healing and ceremonies.

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"Wiingashk"

Represents sharing, caring, and love; Mother, Father, Child. The sweet aroma calms us with thoughts of family and loved ones. Our hair symbolizes Sweet Grass. Unbraided hair is like Sweet Grass moving in the breeze. When braiding our hair, we are to think only good, kind thoughts to have a day filled with respect for ourselves and others.

"Bashkodejiibik"

Protects us from ourselves by offering relief from internal struggles. Smudging or lighting sage brings calm, which allows us to make good decisions. Sage is burned to start a meeting or discussion, or to begin your day in a good way.

"Asemaa"

The first medicine given to the Anishinaabe people. The Creator gave the gift of Tobacco to open the doorway to the West - the spirit world. This allows us to speak directly to the great spirit, and if needed, to allow the spirits to come and help.

"Giizhik"

The medicine that helps protect us from the unknown or unseen, and the emotions and feelings of others. It is used as a shield or a cleansing medicine against lingering spirits that can disrupt daily life.