Qizhjeh Vena Alaska
Dena’ina Center for Sustainable Living
Qizhjeh Vena means 'a place where people gathered lake' in the Dena’ina Athabascan language.
Our vision is to inspire excellence in collaborative outdoor education, environmental stewardship, creative expansion and self-challenge.
Respect, Common Sense, Integrity, Collaboration, Spirituality; Open and Evolving Heart and Mind
Inspired by the Dena’ina Athabascan culture, these core values have sustained the Qizhjeh Vena people and environment for centuries.
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 Four Baskets of Priorities
Environmental Stewardship
Our first basket is focused on protecting sacred and vital habitat, lands, and waters for future generations.
Outdoor Education & Leadership Development
In our second, we work with youth and young adults in outdoor education and leadership development through integrated cultural knowledge systems.
Creativity and Art
Our fourth is offering connection and artistic related educational programs and eventually retreats and residencies.
Food Sovereignty
Our third basket, we are enhancing food sovereignty through gardens, greenhouses, and cultural gathering/hunting/fishing practices. Offering sufficient, healthy and culturally appropriate foods.
Respect the land, it is part of us.
Want to stay in touch?
Sign up to be the first to know about our updates and receive our newsletters.