Who We Are
Northwest Indian Community Development Center (NWICDC) has served the greater Bemidji area for more than 35 years. NWICDC is a Native-led nonprofit that centers on the needs of the indigenous community. It provides strengths-based, culturally-relevant services to individuals and families through a variety of pathways that helps members heal and overcome life obstacles leading to indigenous reclamation and mino-bimaadiziwin “Good Life”.
What We Value
NWICDC staff strive to treat all members, community and self with respect and dignity. We hold and consider our members as part of the extended indigenous community we aspire to build in the greater Bemidji area. Our services are guided by the 7 Grandfather teachings:
NIBWAAKAAWIN
Wisdom
ZAAGI’IDIWIN
Love
Manaaji’idiwin
Respect
ZOONGIDE’EWIN
Bravery
GWAYAKWAADIZIWIN
Honesty
DABASENINDIZOWIN
Humility
DEBWEWIN
Truth
Collectively these teachings hold life virtues to Mino Biimaadiziwin, the full and balanced life our ancestors foresaw for us. Staff walk alongside members on their healing journeys as they face and overcome life's struggles and traumas. NWICDC programming is provided in a culturally rich environment that offers both skills development through traditional teachings and elders and contemporary training and education opportunities.
Our Initiatives
NWICDC carries out its mission through four core initiatives that are informed by an Anishinaabe worldview, trauma informed care, traditional healing, cultural reclamation and system level solutions. Each programming area has its individual eligibility requirements, so we suggest reaching out to staff to learn more about program offerings that come from becoming a member.
The four core programming areas:
Community Events
Be a part of something greater. NWICDC hosts a large number of events every month, some are for members only and others are open to the community. View our full calendar to see the list of events and we hope to see you there!
NWICDC Memberships
NWICDC memberships are classified in two different categories that have different intake processes, guidelines and access to services and programming.
General Membership is open to community members that are interested in receiving NWICDC’s benefits, services and programming opportunities. It requires an intake application, an in person interview to determine interests and programming supports. General membership is the foundation of the organization and primary approach to supporting member's growth and successes. General members can participate in organizational activities, receive direct resources they are eligible for and attend events and cultural opportunities that may not be open for the general public.
Community Interest Membership is open to all community members that would like to participate in our events and cultural activities that are open to the public. Community Interest membership is for individuals that are not seeking support or direct services. A short intake form is required.
Reach Out To Us
We are here to answer questions & direct you in the right direction.