About Qizhjeh Vena
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Mission
To create a world-class gathering center inspired by Dena'ina values and culture. This holistic approach will nurture the next generation of leaders, educators, and inspired individuals within and beyond the Dena'ina community.
Our Vision
Our Mission
Our Mission
To inspire excellence in collaborative outdoor education, environmental stewardship, creative expansion, and self-challenge.
Our Values
Our Mission
Our Values
Inspired by the Dena'ina Athabaskan culture, these core values have sustained the Qizhjeh Vena area for centuries: Respect, Common Sense, Integrity, Collaboration, Spirituality: Open and Evolving Heart and Mind
Southwestern Alaska
Chulitna River is a tributary and water source for Qizhjeh Vena (Lake Clark).
Koksetna Lodge will serve as a cultural center, and be the gateway to a sanctuary for wildlife, and interrelated habitats.
We are happy to announce that we were able to purchase the lodge in Chulitna Bay with a loan provided by the NDN Collective! We were able to pay off half of the loan with help from Native Movement, grants, and donors like you! Our new goal is to finish paying off the loan by next September.
This place will serve as the center for the Qizhjeh Vena organization. The lodge is located at the outlet of the Chulitna River in Chulitna Bay. This area is considered the ‘breadbasket’ to the local Inland Dena’ina people. With the increased population and development in the Qizhjeh Vena area, it has become vital to protect the health and integrity of this tributary. There is no better way to protect than in partnership with the natural world and by supporting the leadership development of the next generation.
We will offer seasonal educational programs, retreats, and opportunities that challenge, inspire, and awaken potential, focusing on youth as well as offerings for people of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
Our programs are grounded in the Dena'ina values of sustainability, and respect.
This Lodge, where people will gather, will promote the interrelationship between people, the community, and the natural environment.