Navajo Evangelical Lutheran Mission Inc

The beauty of hand-made Navajo rugs and jewelry is undeniable. Distinctive patterns and intricate techniques are characteristic of authentic Navajo craftsmanship. But did you know that the artisans in Rock Point, in northeastern Arizona, are struggling to keep their traditions alive? Gone are the days when tourists stopped along the roadside on Highway 191 to speak with the crafters, pay a fair price, and choose from the small displays of handcrafted rugs and jewelry. Replacing roadside marketing and Native Art co-ops are factories and labor forces that mass produce what was once individually designed and fabricated expressions of beauty and cultural meaning.

Without the dignity of satisfying work to do, without a time-honored craft to pass on to the next generation, societies perish. Hunger, poverty and hopelessness become the only legacy.

At the Mission we believe that one viable solution lies within the Navajo community – hidden in the skills and heart of the grandmothers and grandfathers –  nearly dormant, yet ready to be restored with a Fair-Market plan for productivity and sustainability.

Every dollar you provide will fund artisans to purchase supplies, receive a small wage, train younger generations, create and staff a Mission store, and develop an online market – all while giving back 10% to fight hunger and poverty in the Rock Point community.