 Adoption is a tradition of the native American people. Our program is designed to build a bridge between two cultures and between individuals based on the native tradition of the Giveaway Circle.
Adoption does NOT mean a lifetime commitment, although there are friendships that develop that will last a lifetime. Please carefully review the following Frequently Asked Questions.
Your Responsibilities for Adopting an Elder
This is not a pen-pal type of adoption. These Elders are often the most traditional and as such often do not read, write or speak English. Some of the Elders have family members who can write on their behalf, but please consider carefully the basic premise of the Program's activities, the Giveaway Circle.
The minimum responsibility for adopting an Elder is to provide the Rainbox Food Boxes for your Elder for delivery during our semi-annual foodruns (spring and fall). In addition, we ask that you consider providing other items that your Elder may need, as outlined in the adoption information sheet you will receive as a part of the adoption process.
The primary focus of the adoption process is food (see Elders Basic Food Needs). We have options for purchasing food certificates that can be sent to your Elder at other times of the year. Many of the oldest Elders depend on the Rainbow Food Boxes and food certificates to sustain them throughout the year.
Your only additional commitment to the Program is that you let us know what you have sent the Elder, by sending us a postcard or e-mail (mail@anelder.org), so that we can ensure that each Elder's needs are met. Your first year of newsletters is provided as a part of your adoption of an Elder. We strongly suggest that you continue to subscribe to the newsletter, as new options for Elder support are regularly introduced. This is the place where you will understand the Elder's needs throughout the year, and stay connected to the activities of the Program.
As Elders are available for adoption, we will then send you an information sheet on an Elder who needs assistance. This sheet includes their post office mailing address and any known needs the Elder may have, beyond food.
As soon as you receive your Elder Adoption Sheet, we ask that you contact the Elder directly by mail, introducing yourself. You may order a food certificate at the time you adopt your Elder, so that it can be included in your first letter introducing yourself.
It is important to remember that these Elders often do not speak English and may not respond in writing for the gifts received. The Elders may not express their appreciation in words, but in their hearts they are grateful for everything they receive.
Other Options to Support Elders Besides Adoption
Many people would like to support the Elders, but for one reason or another prefer not to commit to an "adoption" process. The Program has a variety of ways that you can provide support for Elders who are part of the ANE Program.
To make a gift in support of any of these programs, please visit the Donations Page. |
