Lenapeowsi Foundation
“Lenapeowsi” means to live the Lenape way. The Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization with a mission to preserve, sustain, and perpetuate Lenape language, culture and society. The organization was founded by three Delaware members: John Sumpter, Titus Frenchman, and Nicky Michael. Today, this organization mainly focusses on youth activities. Each year the foundation holds a Christmas Party attended by nearly one hundred people. The Foundation provides Christmas presents to all the children who attend the party. Moreover, each Thursday evening since 2007, the Foundation holds a pot luck and cultural activity as well as language instruction at the Delaware Community Center in Bartlesville, OK. Levi Randoll (Delaware) and Jason Jones (Euchee) volunteer their time and effort to provide this Thursday night activity. Nancy Sumpter and Kay Anderson, both Delaware Elders, attend and provide for the weekly activities. They assure everyone is fed, clothed, and behaved appropriately as most Grandmothers do.
All children are welcome to attend our activities regardless of tribal affiliation. While we focus on Lenape culture, we include other Tribes as well. For instance, some of the kids know how to sing in both Kiowa and Lenape. Cherokee culture is also strongly influential in our area. Last week, the youth attended a stomp dance at the Miami Tribe complex.
The Cherokee Nation, Native Voices Rising, and the Delaware Tribe have all supported the organization with both cash grants and in-kind donations. Our youth also sell t-shirts, wrist bands, and fans to raise money for their field trips and dance attire. If you would like to donate to this organization or purchase items, please call the Chairwoman, Nicky Kay Michael, PhD at (918)766-6299, or submit a check to Lenapeowsi Foundation, 927 E. Portland Ave. Dewey, OK 74029.
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