CHEII - Collaborative for Harmony, Empowerment & Innovation, Inc.
In Navajo, “cheii” means “grandfather”. Faith named her 501(c)(3) non-profit CHEII because it is a source of support, advice, and wisdom for the Navajo people – similar to what a Navajo grandfather traditionally represents in the community.
Mission & Vision
CHEII collaborates with Navajo communities and non-Native communities to support Navajo youth, families, and education.
CHEII is broadening its scope to focus on sustainability and climate resilience to address environmental challenges in the community such as lack of water, contamination, and environmental remediation and land restoration including the old Trading Post.
CHEII works to achieve these goals through:
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Cross-cultural education
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Community service projects
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School and family support projects
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Sustainability and climate resilience
Board Members
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Faith Roessel - Founder and President
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Evelyn Anderson - Vice President
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Oliver Tapaha - Treasurer
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Lael Tate - Secretary
Past Projects
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CHEII co-sponsored a “Community Partnership Day” with Round Rock School (K-8), a public school in Round Rock, Arizona in the Navajo Nation. CHEII provided backpacks and age-appropriate school supplies to every Round Rock student, with support from a backpack drive conducted by the Breck School in Minnesota.
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CHEII worked with Navajo senior centers to supplement holiday baskets for over 600 seniors and community members in five Navajo communities.
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CHEII partnered with another nonprofit to host a “shoe game” gathering to educate children, families, and community members about Navajo teachings that promote positive self-identity and cultural awareness in an intergenerational setting and will provide Navajo books to every child in attendance.