As Minnesota’s state Zoo, we are committed to ensuring that our programs are accessible to all our citizens – regardless of age, geographic location, disability or background. “Zoo Unlimited” is our community outreach and access initiative that unites a wide range of programs and policies designed to ensure every Minnesotan has unlimited opportunities to form stronger connections with the natural world. Legacy funds help us implement this program bridge barriers that keep people from connecting with all the Zoo has to offer.
To provide a variety of arts and cultural heritage programming opportunities at the Mille Lacs County Fair. A local resident family with success participating in State and National fiddle contests, will assist with the planning and implementation of a fiddle contest and a workshop. A Native American Showcase will allow the Mille Lacs County Fair to broaden its cultural offerings by including an under-represented segment of the county's population in its activities. The showcase will feature Native American dance, song, and drumming.
Over the next two years, through continued implementation of the Immersion Head Start program, Master Speaker/Apprentice program, incorporation of "lessons learned,: coalescence of materials and teaching tools we will create and share a content-based culturally appropriate authentic curriculum for Ojibwe Language Immersion at the Head Start, Kindergarten and First Grade levels. The development process will be an organic, real-time "in classroom" methodology incorporating models from successful Ljibwe language immersion schools.
Develop youth's understanding of the language, their culture and themselves; equip youth with the knowledge, skills and qualities needed for leadership; encourage youths' appreciation forlanguage, cultureal values, teachings, traditions and spirituality; and build youth leadership through meaningful engagement in real community issues.
