Since 1972, we have been changing lives, strengthening families, and building healthy communities. We began as a small grassroots organization operating one program for Native American men in recovery from substance use disorder. Today, Native American Connections owns and operates 21 sites throughout Central Phoenix offering a continuum of affordable housing, health, and community development services which touch and change the lives of over 10,000 individuals and families each year.
Native American Connections services are open to everyone and no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin, familial status, or disability be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination.
This exciting project was a partnership between Native American Connections, the Phoenix Indian Center, LISC, and the City of Phoenix. The Music Building is now known as the Phoenix Indian Visitor Center and is a cultural gathering place where the community can experience Native Foods, learn about the history of Phoenix Indian School, experience sports events, arts, culture, and music.
One of Native American Connections' greatest strengths is that it has managed to maintain the heart, soul and spirit of a grassroots community-based organization. The reasons we were founded almost 50 years ago still resonate with us, providing us with meaning and passion for our work today.
Native American Connections partnered with the Valley of the Sun United Ways Initiative to end homelessness in Maricopa County through the development of 1,000 units of permanent supportive housing. Through this partnership, we established both Encanto Pointe and Stepping Stone Place as housing communities that are guided by the housing first model for chronically homeless individuals.
Our involvement in the Valley of the Sun United Ways Initiative continues in our partnership with A New Leaf. As co-developers, Native American Connections and A New Leaf are creating 80 units of affordable and permanent supportive housing for families. This housing community will eventually be joined by 30 permanent supportive housing units for the chronically homeless being developed by NAC and A New Leaf.
Effective August 2021, NAC hosted AA meetings are closed to public participation in accordance with recommendation by the CDC and out of precaution for the safety of our community during this ongoing pandemic. Thank you for wearing a mask and keeping your community safe.
Unfortunately due to COVID health and safety protocol, our public healing ceremonies are unavailable. Please check back with us later in the year for additional updates concerning traditional ceremony held at our sites.
Members of the Native American Connections' Board of Directors have witnessed the positive impact of NAC's affordable housing, behavioral health, and community development services on the lives of Native American individuals and families. Under the leadership of Diana Yazzie Devine and her committed staff, Native American Connections has transformed into one of the oldest and most respected nonprofit organizations reaching those in need throughout Phoenix.
While the Board remains diverse in terms of the experiences and expertise offered by each member, the members share a common vision and enthusiasm to continue growing and strengthening the services of Native American Connections. Staying true to our roots, over half the board members are Native American, and to ensure the integrity of our services for homeless men and women, the board includes an individual who experienced homelessness.
