It was an exciting ride to the Menominee Tribal School for students Daniel Preston, Antoinette Jackson and Jarvis Harmon. Supervisors for this trip were staff members from the Office of Student Life, Patrice Jefferies and Shirley Todor.
The trip was the result of an ongoing theme that staff member Jefferies has continued to instill in students, both present and past. “The focus here should really be that the Student Government members choose a charity based on something one of the members is passionate about, and all the members jump on board to support that passion and that member.  For this time Preston researched many Native American tribes and found this one to be in need.  He told me many people think they get money from the casinos so why would they need help,” said Jefferies.
To clearly get an understanding as to why that misconception is around, it would help to read the following article from the Native Nations Institute for Leadership, Management, and Policy. turtletalk.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/nni-per-capita-paper.pdf.
The Student Government raised an impressive $400 to buy the much needed school supplies. As an American Native, Preston is active in his community efforts and Human Services program; he traveled around to several reservations and found that this was something close and dear to his heart. “The Menominee tribe is its own sovereign nation within the United States. It’s the poorest tribe in the state of Wisconsin. There is a misconception that all Native Americans receive a monthly income from the federal government. People often ask me, ‘Where are the reservations?’ I replied, ‘In the middle of nowhere. It’s a little country in a big country’. Sometimes, the help that’s needed is in our own backyard. It is important that people know this information because too many people focus on per caps and not the help!” Preston stated.
Helene Caldwell, assistant administrator to Menominee School, and Administrator Shannon Chapman were there to receive the generous gift from the students and staff. Chapman’s eyes lit up and a big smile appeared on her face!
The school was in its remodeling stage and awaiting the arrival of new students. Once the supplies were unloaded, everyone took time to check out the school and take in all of the surroundings.
When asked about why this was important, Jackson said, “It makes me happy when I help others. I think everyone should try it at least once in their life.”  Harmon had this to say about the fundraiser, “I’m glad to help others in time of need. I stood faithfully in the halls raising money for the Menominee Nation. Thanks to the students of MATC for making this possible with their contributions. Thank you.”
This trip was a great way to get acquainted with one another, and another way to give a charity the benefits from another act of kindness.