While donors and contributors share funding and materials for our projects, volunteers turn that generousity into action. We're very thankful for the level of participation that we have received from both native, and non-native volunteers. Thanks to each and every one of you! A Different Kind of Service - An Introduction to Volunteer Work with Four Directions We believe volunteering within indigenous communities and with indigenous traditionals is among the most rewarding and honorable kinds of service one might participate in. We also believe it comes with its own unique considerations. In order to do this work respectfully, there are three key ideas we would like to share to describe the work we do. They are: 1) culturally appropriate, 2) traditionally minded, and 3) solidarity/mutual-aid. Working Within a Cultural Framework Culturally appropriate means all of our work must be done within a cultural framework as directed by our native community coordinators who understand the unique cultural aspects of each location. For example, one aspect common to every indigenous culture is honoring the land and all living things. We work in some very beautiful natural places. So we ask people to respect our Earth Mother, pick up trash (even if its not your own), not to visit sacred places without permission, and don't abuse animals, plants, rocks, or other living things. Honoring Tradition Being traditionally-minded means we honor traditional values, while working to understanding the impact that modern systems of material wealth and exploitation have had on traditional communities. This honor is expressed by addressing elders and community members respectfully, and not participating in offensive or disrespectful behavior. We ask people to refrain from using offensive gestures or language. Most importantly we let the Grandmothers and Grandfathers guide our actions. We Don't Do Charity Solidarity/mutual-aid refers to how we provide support. We are not a charitable organization. We don't perform charity. Instead, we work as community partners - as equals - recognizing the give and take that is necessary for healthy and empowered relationships. Working in solidarity helps to build a closer friendship with our partners. However, we do ask Four Directions staff and volunteers to refrain from alcohol and drug use when working within our projects. Similarly, we ask volunteers not to buy or assist those we serve with obtaining alcohol or drugs. We're here to empower people, not enable destruction. Is this the kind of volunteer work you would like to do? We hope our work has spoken to your heart. If you've read through this page and feel like this is the kind of volunteer service you or your group would like to participate in, then we celebrate your interest! Please be aware we will be placing our entire Volunteer Manual online for download soon. Also, when you arrive to volunteer at one of our projects, we'll ask for all the volunteers to read the Volunteer Manual and sign a liability waiver. Ready for the next step? Simply proceed to Step 2 - Volunteer Needs List and then to Step 3 - Filling out a Volunteer Sign-Up Form.