Our Story and Mission
Empowering American Indian and Alaska Native families through culturally-responsive services, advocacy, and community partnership.
Since 2022
Serving the Western Slope of Colorado
What guides us
Mission, vision, and values
Empowering 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.
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.