FARGO – The Turtle Mountain Chippewa Heritage Center on the Turtle Mountain Reservation has been awarded a grant for its Seven Feathers Program, according to the North Dakota Blue Cross Blue Shield Caring Foundation.

The foundation recently awarded several spring strengthening people, access, resources and knowledge (SPARK) grants. These grants are awarded to community-based initiatives that support the health and well-being in local communities, reflect community priorities and demonstrate the ability to create lasting change.

The heritage center will offer education and information about Indigenous regalia and styles of powwow dance, having community members make their own regalia for their chosen style of dance. This program will offer a unique opportunity for community members to participate in an effort to deter high-risk behaviors. It will also improve access to physical activity, enhance cultural practices and knowledge, foster a relationship with elders and mentors in the programand bring together community members in a positive environment.

Also receiving a grant was the North Dakota Autism Center for statewide, expanded school-based support.

Other recipients were Spectra Health in Grand Forks, Standing Rock Community Development Corp.’s Healthy Futures Initiative and the Immigrant Development Center in Fargo.

BCBSND Caring Foundation will begin accepting letters of intent for the 2025 fall SPARK grant cycle beginning in July 2025.