Tyrese "Bright Flower" Gould Jacinto's Art on Display at Stockton Art Gallery through November 12th9/30/2024
We are thrilled to announce that Tyrese "Bright Flower" Gould Jacinto's Lenape Gourd Art is currently on display at the Stockton Art Gallery, alongside works from other talented Indigenous artists. This powerful exhibition offers a unique opportunity to experience Tyrese's art's deep cultural and spiritual significance inspired by Lenape traditions.
Tyrese's "No Face Ancestor" Gourd Art reflects years of meditation and connection with the earth, a tradition passed down for generations. It will be featured as part of this exhibition. Visitors will have the chance to explore Tyrese's artwork and other Indigenous perspectives on cultural preservation, sustainability, and spirituality. As part of this celebration, Indigenous Peoples' Day will be held on October 14th, featuring a variety of activities honoring Indigenous heritage. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with the vibrant artistry and traditions of Indigenous communities. The exhibition runs through November 12th, so visit and immerse yourself in this extraordinary cultural experience. For more information, see the Stockton Art Gallery's official website: Stockton Art Gallery We look forward to seeing you there! We are excited to share a special YouTube Playlist dedicated to the Cohanzick Nature Reserve, capturing the beauty and spirit of this sacred space. Recently, we were blessed to host the Indigenous Youth Retreat, where local youth participated in various workshops, spiritual experiences, and traditional activities like foraging for huckleberries and archery.
If you’ve visited the reserve, you might even spot yourself in one of our videos! Watch the retreat highlights here: Watch the Youth Retreat Video Explore more moments and experiences on our full playlist: Cohanzick Nature Reserve Playlist Join us in celebrating the connection between land, culture, and community. NAAC Urgently Seeks Donations for Essential Equipment to Support the Cohanzick Nature Reserve9/29/2024
The Native American Advancement Corp (NAAC) is contacting our community for help obtaining much-needed equipment to maintain and enhance the Cohanzick Nature Reserve. Due to an 11-month delay in opening caused by the Township approval process, we faced over $80,000 in unexpected expenses, including legal fees, property taxes exceeding $30,000, and loss of revenue. Thanks to the grace of the Creator, we managed to cover these expenses. Still, it has left us without the funds to secure essential items necessary to provide the whole experience we've envisioned for the reserve.
We humbly ask for your support to help us obtain the following essential items:
Your donations, large or small, will directly contribute to the continued development of the Cohanzick Nature Reserve. They will allow us to create a welcoming and well-maintained environment for visitors, educational programs, and community events. Any assistance you can provide will make a significant difference in helping us recover and move forward with our mission. How to Help: Please consider making a monetary donation or contributing one of the needed items. Your generosity will ensure we can continue offering an exceptional experience at the Cohanzick Nature Reserve, fostering community connection, cultural preservation, and environmental conservation. Thank you for your continued support as we realize our vision for the reserve and beyond. The Native American Advancement Corp (NAAC) is committed to creating positive change through environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and workforce development programs. To sustain and expand our efforts, we are applying for several grants to support critical initiatives, such as climate action and educational programs at the Cohanzick Nature Reserve. We need your help! Letters of support from community members, stakeholders, and partners strengthen our applications and demonstrate the wide-reaching impact of our work. Whether you are a beneficiary of our services, a collaborator, or simply someone who values our mission, your voice can make a difference in securing the funding we need to continue our efforts. How You Can Help: Please take a few minutes to write a letter of support for NAAC. The letter should reflect your experience or support for our programs and the positive impact NAAC has had on the community. Below is a simple template to guide you in crafting your letter: [Date] [Your Name] [Your Title/Organization] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] To Whom It May Concern: I am writing to express my strong support for the Native American Advancement Corp (NAAC) and its mission to empower communities through environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and workforce development. NAAC's initiatives, such as the Cohanzick Nature Reserve, have profoundly impacted my community, environment, and personal experience. Their dedication to addressing climate change, providing education, or revitalizing communities is critical to creating sustainable and equitable change in South New Jersey and beyond. I believe NAAC's work will continue to benefit countless individuals and contribute to the health of our environment. I strongly urge you to consider NAAC's grant application for funding. Their work will undoubtedly continue to make a positive difference for the community and future generations. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information] By sending your letter of support, you help ensure that we can continue to make a meaningful impact in the community. Please submit your letters to [email protected], or by mailing NAAC at PO Box 824, Bridgeton, NJ 08302.
Thank you for supporting NAAC's mission. Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future for all! The Native American Advancement Corp (NAAC) was a proud sponsor of the 51st Annual Environmental Congress hosted by the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC) on September 27th. This in-person educational conference brought together environmental leaders, municipal officials, and citizens across the state to explore conservation issues through interactive workshops and inspirational discussions.
Workshop topics included Mastering Municipal Ordinances, Stormwater Management (MS4), Waste Reduction, Renewable Energy, Water Quality Protection, Zoning Reviews, Invasive Species Control, and more. Participants gained valuable insights into tackling New Jersey's pressing environmental challenges. The conference highlighted how local actions can impact globally, empowering attendees to implement sustainable practices in their communities. Featured speakers included NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette and NJ State Climatologist David Robinson, who addressed how New Jersey is preparing to weather the impacts of climate change through innovative policies and actions. Their perspectives offered a deep dive into the state's climate resilience efforts, from urban greenways to water quality protection, sparking lively discussions on the future of environmental stewardship in the state. As part of NAAC's sponsorship, we proudly contributed to ANJEC's Silent Auction, offering a unique experience at the Cohanzick Nature Reserve. The "Awaken Your Senses" package invites auction winners to immerse themselves in the sacred landscape with guided tours that connect participants to the rich cultural heritage of the Cohanzick Lenape people while exploring the reserve's natural beauty. To learn more about ANJEC's annual event or bid in the silent auction, visit their official website: ANJEC Environmental Congress Cohanzick Auction Experience NAAC remains committed to supporting environmental education and conservation and empowering communities to address climate change. Together, we can make New Jersey a model of sustainability. The Native American Advancement Corp (NAAC) offers vital support to low-income households through our energy assistance programs, including the Low to moderate Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Home Energy Assistance (HEA), and the Universal Service Fund (USF). These programs are designed to help families struggling to afford their energy bills, ensuring they can maintain access to heating, cooling, and electricity throughout the year.
NAAC's energy assistance programs provide financial relief to eligible households, particularly during the winter heating and summer cooling seasons when energy costs are at their highest. These programs cover a portion of utility bills and help families avoid service interruptions, manage rising energy costs, and keep their homes safe and livable. Our team works closely with applicants to determine eligibility and guide them through the application process, ensuring they receive the maximum benefit. We serve families across New Jersey, focusing on those most in need, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and households with young children. LIHEAP and HEA offer financial assistance for heating and cooling costs. At the same time, USF helps reduce the monthly energy burden for low-income households by providing ongoing discounts on electric and gas bills. Together, these programs offer essential relief, allowing families to focus on other critical needs without worrying about energy costs. Keep the Lights On and the Heat Flowing With your support, NAAC can continue to help more families in need, ensuring that no one has to choose between warmth and other necessities. Through our energy assistance programs, we're making a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable communities across New Jersey. The Native American Advancement Corp (NAAC) Lead Remediation Program is committed to safeguarding families from the harmful effects of lead exposure in their homes. Serving some of the most vulnerable communities in New Jersey, our program provides critical lead testing, abatement, and education services to ensure that homes are safe, healthy, and lead-free.
Lead exposure from deteriorating paint in older homes can devastate children's development and overall family health. Our Lead Remediation Program identifies lead hazards, particularly in homes with young children. It provides comprehensive solutions to eliminate the risk of exposure. From removing lead-based paint to replacing contaminated windows, doors, and soil, we focus on making homes safer and healthier environments for everyone. Our team of certified professionals conducts thorough lead inspections and risk assessments, developing customized abatement plans for each home. We work closely with homeowners to ensure every process step is completed efficiently and safely, adhering to all local and federal regulations. In addition to physical remediation, we offer education on lead poisoning prevention and connect families to additional resources for long-term health and safety. The program prioritizes homes with pregnant women, infants, and young children, aiming to eliminate the dangers of lead before it impacts health. Healthy Homes, Bright Futures Your support helps NAAC continue to expand our Lead Remediation Program, allowing us to protect more families from the harmful effects of lead exposure. Together, we can create safer homes and ensure a healthier future for the next generation. The Heater Replacement Program, offered by the Native American Advancement Corp (NAAC), ensures that low to moderate income families and individuals in New Jersey have access to reliable, energy-efficient heating systems. By replacing outdated or malfunctioning heaters, we help keep homes warm, safe, and affordable to heat during the cold winter.
This program supports families struggling with high heating costs or unsafe heating systems. We offer free assessments of existing heating systems and, if needed, replace them with modern, energy-efficient models. This improves comfort and safety for homeowners, helps reduce energy bills, and contributes to a cleaner environment. The Heater Replacement Program prioritizes households with vulnerable members, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families with young children. They ensure that adequately heated homes safeguard the health and well-being of those at risk during extreme weather conditions. Through the program, participants also receive information on energy conservation, which helps them maximize the efficiency of their new heating systems and make their homes more sustainable in the long term. Warm Homes, Healthier Families With your support, we can expand our Heater Replacement Program, helping more families stay warm, lower their energy costs, and create a safer living environment. The Weatherization Assistance Program, led by the Native American Advancement Corp (NAAC), is dedicated to improving the quality of life for low to moderate-income families by making their homes more energy-efficient, safer, and comfortable. Serving Atlantic and Cape May counties in New Jersey, this vital program helps reduce household energy costs while promoting environmental sustainability.
Our Weatherization team provides free home energy assessments and upgrades, including insulation, air sealing, window replacements, and energy-efficient heating systems. By making homes more efficient, we help families reduce their energy bills and conserve natural resources while improving indoor air quality and ensuring homes are healthier places to live. Through this program, we prioritize vulnerable populations, including seniors, people with disabilities, and families with children. With rising energy costs, the Weatherization Assistance Program offers long-term solutions to combat high utility bills, alleviate financial burdens, and contribute to energy independence. Our program goes beyond immediate weatherization needs. We educate participants on energy-saving practices and connect them to additional resources and services, further empowering families to maintain the comfort and safety of their homes year-round. Help Us Make Homes Greener, Healthier, and More Affordable Your support allows us to reach more homes and families in need, expanding our impact and ensuring a sustainable, energy-efficient future for our communities. NAAC's Eversolar Community Solar Program: Powering Communities with Clean, Affordable Energy9/29/2024
The Native American Advancement Corp (NAAC) proudly leads the Eversolar Community Solar Program. This transformative initiative brings renewable energy to underserved communities across New Jersey. Designed to make clean, affordable energy accessible to all, Eversolar allows households to benefit from solar power without the need for costly solar panel installations.
Our program allows residents to subscribe to local solar energy projects, reducing their reliance on traditional, polluting energy sources while lowering their utility bills. Participants receive credits on their electricity bills based on their share of the solar energy produced, creating immediate savings and a more sustainable energy future. Eversolar is not only about providing cost-effective energy; it's about empowering communities to take part in the clean energy revolution. By prioritizing participation from households in economically disadvantaged areas, including marginalized communities, the program helps ensure that the benefits of renewable energy are shared equitably. Through Eversolar, NAAC is committed to combating climate change, reducing energy costs, and fostering environmental stewardship in our communities. As we expand this program, we're building a cleaner, more resilient future for all. Support our Eversolar Community Solar Program and help us bring the power of renewable energy to more families, creating a brighter, greener tomorrow for New Jersey's underserved communities. You can now enjoy energy savings from solar without the expensive price tag. With Community Solar from Eversolar, you can sign up online for our local solar project that you'll share with others in your community. Save Money, Reduce Your Carbon Footprint, and Support NAAC Sign up for the Eversolar Community Solar Program through our nonprofit, NAAC, and enjoy up to 45% savings on your Atlantic City Electric bill—whether you rent or own, with NO rooftop solar needed. Plus, get a $50 gift card just for signing up. This offer won't last long—join us today and start saving! Special Thank You to the Lenapehoking Reestablishment Project Where History and Nature Unite9/29/2024
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Lenapehoking Reestablishment Project for hosting the annual Indigenous Youth Retreat at the Cohanzick Nature Reserve. Their dedication to promoting Lenape awareness, supporting tribal youth, and strengthening public relations has been instrumental in fostering our community’s growth and engagement. The Lenapehoking Reestablishment Project continues to support the next generation through the New Dawn Youth Council, empowering young leaders from the Nanticoke Lenape and other Indigenous nations. We are deeply honored to collaborate with them on such impactful events that ensure the future of Lenape culture and heritage.
Nestled in the heart of South Jersey, Cohanzick Nature Reserve is a serene haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. As the ancestral home of the Cohanzick Local Indigenous people, this sacred land offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the unspoiled beauty of the natural world while connecting with the rich cultural heritage of the Local Indigenous Nation. Spread over acres of lush forests, winding trails, and a scenic pond, the reserve is home to diverse wildlife, rare plant species, and tranquil water bodies. Every step you take in the reserve echoes with stories of the past, from the deep-rooted traditions of the Local Indigenous people to their ongoing efforts to protect and conserve this land for future generations. Cohanzick Nature Reserve isn't just a place to escape; it's a place to discover. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and reflective walks through the Longhouse Sanctuary while learning about Indigenous culture and conservation practices. It's a living landscape where education and ecology meet, making it an ideal destination for families, schools, and environmentalists. Your support through visits and donations helps preserve this beautiful reserve. It sustains the Native American Advancement Corps (NAAC) ongoing spiritual programs, educational initiatives, and conservation projects. By giving, you are directly contributing to protecting this vital land and the legacy of the Local Indigenous people. Experience the timeless beauty and heritage of the Cohanzick Nature Reserve today! Learn more about the Lenapehoking Reestablishment Project News here: The Cohanzick Climate Corps, and the AmeriCorps service network, is a groundbreaking initiative that combines hands-on environmental conservation with impactful workforce development. This program, operated by the Native American Advancement Corp (NAAC), offers participants the opportunity to make a real difference in the poorest counties of New Jersey, all while gaining valuable skills and training in environmental stewardship.
In partnership with the Nation's first and only US Arborist Apprenticeship Program, the Cohanzick Climate Corps provides specialized training in sustainable forestry, tree care, and conservation practices. This innovative apprenticeship helps address the economic and environmental challenges facing underserved communities by offering participants a career pathway into the growing field of arboriculture. Members work alongside certified professionals to learn everything from tree planting and maintenance to urban forestry and land management, receiving nationally recognized credentials upon completion. Our program focuses on revitalizing New Jersey's most economically disadvantaged areas, particularly emphasizing Indigenous conservation practices and climate resilience. Participants contribute to vital projects such as reforestation and management, and community green space development, all while building a brighter future for themselves and the environment. Join the Cohanzick Climate Corps to gain practical skills, grow your career, and be part of a movement that creates sustainable change in the communities that need it most. With your support, we can continue to expand workforce training and environmental impact, helping to protect our land while empowering the next generation of leaders. Make an Impact. Build a Career. Protect Our Future. |