I am Ellen Kemper, an attorney who has worked in Indian affairs for the past
decade or more.
I have met with Sherry on at least two occasions and do not know her well;
however, since
I do know of her and her organization I thought I could be of some help . . .
First Nations is an organization that has truly demonstrated support for
self-determination
and self-sufficiency of Indian people. They have worked in very depressed areas
of America
where it is nearly impossible for an Indian to get a loan from a financial
institution. First
Nations created a revolving loan fund in South Dakota to start up new business
for
craftspeople, cowboys, etc. The loans are not lent until the person requesting
the loan
has thought out his or her financial plan (with help from First Nations staff.)
The person
receiving the loan knows that it's up to him or her to pay it back so that other
individuals
can then receive loans. The loan amounts are usually small enough for the
individuals to
realistically repay them, however, without First Nations, these individuals
would not be
able market themselves at all. It is a wonderful service.
First Nations puts its focus on the community people rather than the tribal
government. This
focus seems to yield results without getting caught up in tribal politics.
Have a great visit with Sherry. I envy her!
Ellen Kemper
Santa Fe, NM