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 Values
Our Mission
Our Mission
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
Our Vision
Our Mission
Our Vision
To inspire excellence in collaborative outdoor education, environmental stewardship, creative expansion and self-challenge.
Qizhjeh Vena Alaska Land Purchase
It is with deep gratitude and excitement that we announce our purchase of the Koksetna Lodge.
This lodge is located on five acres of land located at the mouth of Chulitna River which drains into Qizhjeh Vena, known today as Lake Clark.
A year ago, we didn’t know how this purchase would be possible; the asking price was far beyond funds we had and it was a short timeline. Our goal was far bigger than us or a simple lodge and land purchase. We knew the Dena’ina Ancestors were there cheering us on and supporting us. Everything came together in the last four months leading up to signing the paperwork and receiving the title to “Koksetna Lodge” at the end of August 2024.
We were continually inspired by the local, regional, and national support we received; both individually and organizationally. We appreciate all of the verbal, energetic, monetary, informational, and logistical support. It took many networks and community members to make this happen. We give our greatest Chin’an Gheli to NDN Collective who came to our aide in the final hours and provided the loan for the property purchase. NDN Collective provided hours of support through business education, financial expertise, regenerative literacy, legal advice and will continue to support us as loan relatives until we successfully pay off the loan.
Where we are located
Qizhjeh Vena Alaska (QVA) is an Indigenous-led organization dedicated to the resilience and self-determination of the Dena'ina people. Our organization addresses critical environmental, cultural, and economic challenges facing the Dena'ina community in the Lake Clark region.
Currently we are in the first stages of transforming the Koksetna Wilderness Lodge, into a place that meets our vision and mission. This center will serve as a central gathering place we envision to successfully serve the region.
The Qizhjeh Vena Dena'ina Center for Sustainable Living will foster environmental stewardship, cultural pride, and community empowerment. It will provide an accessible space for workshops, intergenerational learning, and ecological restoration efforts. By collaborating with tribal councils, community members and other local organizations, QVA will support regional economic opportunities, strengthen community unity, and establish a model for Indigenous-led sustainable development.