Our Story

Rooted in Culture. Walking Together.

Since 2022, the Western Slope Native American Resource Center has been a place where American Indian and Alaska Native individuals and families can find connection, support, and culturally grounded services. We believe our traditions, stories, and communities are sources of strength, and we are committed to honoring those traditions while helping families navigate everyday challenges.

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Founded 2022Grand Junction, COCulturally Responsive

Since 2022

Serving the Western Slope of Colorado

What guides us

Mission, vision, and values

Strengthening Native communities with integrity

WSNARC was founded to empower Native Americans and Alaskan Natives to exercise their cultural values with integrity, in partnership with the communities we live in, through cultural identity, while advocating for racial justice and health equity.

Cultural identityHealth equity

Meet Our Board Members

Dedicated leaders guiding WSNARC's mission to serve
Native American families on the Western Slope.

Jose Chaves

Community Organizer

Born and raised in Mesa County, Jose Luis received his B.A. from Mesa State College. A lifelong community advocate, he sits on numerous boards across the Western Slope and builds relationships with diverse community leaders, law enforcement, and school districts.

Shawn Davis

M.G.S., M.P.A., C.F.M. | PDF Consulting, Chief & Executive Officer

A coach and consultant with over 24 years of experience in health equity and nonprofit management. Shawn has worked with African-American, Hispanic, LGBTQ+, Native American, and rural populations on health equity projects, as well as Board development and strategic planning.

Drew Kraniak

Attorney at Hoskin Farina & Kampf, P.C.

Drew focuses on civil litigation, employment, and education issues in Grand Junction. Before law school, he lived and taught on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. He is grateful for the opportunity to serve the Native American community on the Western Slope.

Alicia Michelsen

Director of The Learning Council

Alicia directs The Learning Council, an educational NGO utilizing the Gift Model for community-supported education. She serves on the boards of Viva la Vida, Western Colorado Migrant and Rural Coalition, and WSNARC, and is a Sexual Health Educator and advocate in Delta County.