Purpose
Tribal Elders are considered to be the “Wisdom Keepers” of any Tribal Family. They are the footing of strength, exuding grace, wisdom and gentleness in their actions and words. They are the essential portal to keeping our tradition and culture alive in a world that is ever evolving with every generation; resembling a place where wisdom and intuition converges with modern day intelligence and knowledge.
Tribal Elders, in their own right, are our teachers of life, respect and values. They instill the sense of rightness, the importance of acceptance and understanding, kindness, love and forgiveness. Most importantly, they teach us how to be good listeners which is chief in making wise decisions.
The Elders are the core of our existence.
Onayisɛma Tayoroni-Halayihku
Onayisɛma tarusa tahɛrasɛma sɛhɛli. Sɛma haluhuni rihki tipusa tarusa wista kana yanikata. Hal’ukini kichu hishtahahkihchi pirakatiman mishtihki nisara pirakatihch onayisɛma tishuhki sahkuhta inktetimilishtihki. Hal’ukininahku kata tarusa niy’ ɔma wantaha taniyulap’ɔma ashunisa atepihk’unta.
Onayisɛma inktaworunisɛma kashi. Amari lapuya inkworuhkanta. Amari lapuya inkworuhkantaman tarusa tipusa mahka sara tirishi hamishtihki inkworuhk’anta. Tirishi hamishtihki panuhch, tawini lapusɛma niyulapuyawan inkworuhkanta.
Onayisɛma intuhki atɛhkala kichu.
Mission Statement
The Tunica-Biloxi Elders’ Council will foster an atmosphere of respect, compassion and community teamwork as an example to every tribal generation. The Council will advocate and support internally and externally the promotion of indigenous peoples’ rights and quality healthcare for all tribal members. Most importantly, the Elders’ Council will work diligently to protect, preserve, and share cultural programming for the benefit of tribal members of all ages now and for the future. We will embody “Cherishing Our Past, Building For Our Future!”
Resources & Services
Highlights for 2024
- Healing Tribal Strong-See the flyer here
- A cancer Forum to provide a safe space for those who may be affected by cancer, to share similar experiences, and seek to find a caring and loving support group.
- Kicks-offs Feb 4, 4:30 PM. Hosted by Janis Summerlin – Click Here To Access Our Facebook Group Page
- Tunica-Biloxi Elders Facebook Page
- If you are a Tunica-Biloxi elder and are not yet a part of the elder Facebook page, click here to sign up!
- Healing Tribal Strong 5K – Seeking Volunteers – Details TBA
- Elders “Dinner At Mezzaz” – 1st Monday and 3rd Wednesday of each month – to RSVP, email Elders@tunica.org or call 636-328-4520
- Healthy Steps, featuring a “NEW YEAR, NEW ME”, transform your body in 5 weeks – To register email Brent Barbre at babarbre@tunica.org
- Houston Lunch and Learn
- Feb 17, to RSVP, email Elders@tunica.org or call Anna Farris at 281-630-3621
- Click here to review the Houston Lunch & Learn flyer
- Broadband Program
- Elders don’t get left behind in this growing world of technology! Sign up to receive your PC or Laptop. Internet and computer training could be available soon.
- Memorial Program
Education
Health
- Brain Health – Staying Sharp
Services
- AARP Membership (sponsored by Mobiloans)-AARP Flyer& Membership Reimbursement Form 2024
- Enrichment Learning
- Elderly Quarterly Meals-2024 Elder Qtrly Meal Program Information
- Sunshine Program – The Sunshine Committee will mail a birthday card, get well, or sympathy well wishes for any elder dealing with a loss or in need of encouragement. Contact Joanie Arteta at jarteta@tunica.org
- TB-Nets – Transportation Services for Elders
Additional Information
- Justice Department Intensifies Its Fight Against Elder Fraud
- 6 things you need to know about Social Security in your 50’s
Additional Resources
- Personal Planning & Wellbeing Classes
- Credit Counselling/Budget
- Life Skills
- Estate and Retirement Planning
For more details, contact Stephanie Stiles, Housing Director, by emailing SStiles@tunica.org
- ROSS Program is an initiative that empowers individuals and fosters growth and independence through tailored support and guidance
- Financial Literacy
- Career Development
- Health and Wellness
- Community Engagement
For more details, email Babette Bordelon, ROSS Coordinator, at BBordelon@tunica.org
- Cemonia StrotherWilliams Library
- Don’t forget to visit the Library located at the CERC building, 9 AM – 4 PM, Monday through Friday
- Full Computer Available for tribal use
- Expanding book collection available for check-out
- For assistance, email Julia Barry, JBarry@tunica.org
- Don’t forget to visit the Library located at the CERC building, 9 AM – 4 PM, Monday through Friday
Upcoming Events
Elder Calendar of Events 2024
Elders’ Council
- Joanie Arteta, Chairperson
- Anna Farris, Vice-Chairperson
- Angela Barbry-Grant, Secretary
- Louis Medina, Council Member
- Michelle Richardson, Council Member
- Sylvester (Joe) Barbry, Jr., Council Member
- Rudy Wambsgans, Council Member