Cultural Preservation Project
Thundermakers Cultural Preservation Program collaborates with various addiction recovery centers across Arizona to address the unique needs of Native clients. For many Native people, trauma is at the root of their substance abuse behaviors. This trauma often stems from intergenerational and historical traumas that have disrupted family systems, leading to destructive behaviors, violence, depression, suicide, and addiction.
Recognizing the need for Native clients to access cultural healing practices, Thundermaker partnered with addiction centers to provide comprehensive cultural consultation services. These services include:
Improving Treatment Plans: Tailoring treatment plans to incorporate cultural elements that resonate with Native clients, ensuring that their cultural identity is respected and integrated into their recovery journey.
Cultural Talking Circles: Facilitating talking circles where clients can share their experiences and receive support in a culturally safe environment. These circles promote healing through storytelling and communal support.
Traditional Crafting Therapies: Implementing therapies that involve traditional crafting activities, allowing clients to engage in hands-on cultural practices that foster a sense of connection and purpose.
Ceremonies and Sweat Lodges: Regularly providing ceremonies such as sweat lodges, which offer spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional healing. These ceremonies help clients reconnect with their cultural roots and establish a foundation of well-being.
These programs have been successful in creating a sense of belonging, inclusion, and revitalization for Native clients. By incorporating cultural practices into the recovery process, clients are able to rebuild their identity after treatment while reducing the likelihood of relapse. The centers involved in this collaboration include:
Pasadera Recovery Center
Hope and Healing
Life Center
Shamrock Recovery
Thundermaker Wellness Center
