Genevieve Vaughn, Marsha Gomez, Ingrid Washinawatok

Goal
To provide culturally based arts, environmental and leadership development programs and services that directly benefit Indigenous women, youth and children of southern Indigenous communities and that focuses on uniting Indigenous women from nations throughout North America thereby empowering them to address issues of common concern.

Program Objectives

1. Provide year round cultural arts and leadership development programs for Indigenous youth from southern Texas, predominately Austin and area that will;
   1. be based on Indigenous cultures and traditions;
   2. promote healthy life styles,
   3. increase self esteem and empower individuals; and
   4. promote education as a vehicle for self determination
2. Promote Alma de Mujer Centre for Social Change as a model of a sustainable community by;
   1. modeling indigenous land preservation strategies and values (maintenance and protection of the organic herb and vegetable gardens, natural medicinal plants, Mother earth and all that walks upon her),
   2. development of experiential training modules that can be delivered using a hands on approach which focus on land preservation and usage, and
   3. development of a long term land management plan for sustaining Alma in as natural a state as possible.
3. Provide cultural arts education programs to Indigenous people of all ages that will assist them in transforming their environments, enrich their spirit and promote cultural literacy that is critical in developing them as fully engaged citizens in the global society.
4. Provide culturally based educational opportunities for Indigenous Women and others that empower them to improve their families and communities (EALP and Specific Events – Training Seminars/Roundtables, Women’s Circles and Interns (Intern Placement Program)
5. Provide Alma de Mujer Centre for Social Change as a gathering space for Indigenous and non Indigenous non profit organizations who are interested in spiritual well being and who value the environment in way that is respectful of the land and its people.

Alma de Mujer Centre for Social Change is located on a is a 22-acre paradise of unspoiled territory near Austin, Texas which spans Travis and Williamson Counties. Cypress Creek, a feeder for Lake Travis, runs through the property, creating a lush pond where native plants and wildlife flourish.  The land is home to countless species of animals, including deer, possums, raccoons, wild boars, armadillos, and more. Over 40 species of birds, including three endangered species, have been sighted on the land.  

Alma has five permanent structures, including a 3000 square foot main lodge which includes a large kitchen and meeting space along with two office spaces which house the head offices of the Indigenous Women’s Network. There are three housing units on the property which include the Tree House, Cedar Suites and Staff Lodge. These units offer 24 beds for overnight accommodation.

(Pictures) Inside and out 

The Marsha Gomez Pottery Studio with an operating kiln and artistic space is also located on the property.

Picture - Studio

Additionally there is a one-acre organic herb garden, a half acre organic vegetable garden, a private hot tub, a chicken coop, and two small maintenance huts located on the property.

Picture – Hot Tub

Alma was gifted to the Indigenous Women’s Network in 1996 by Ms. Genevieve Vaughan for the use of Indigenous people. Thus Alma De Mujer Centre for Social Change was created to provide a supportive, nurturing and healing space for Indigenous women and their families particularly in the south Texas area, who would not otherwise have access to such a resource and secondarily as a space where Indigenous women and their families can come to reflect, rejuvenate and gather to discuss issues of common concern. Over the years Alma has provided space for many individuals and groups at little or no cost. Any funds raised through rentals are put toward the upkeep costs of the facility.

A Committee of local residents and representatives from various organizations provide direction into the programming and operations at Alma. A strategic planning session was held in the spring of 2007 to provide a vision and future direction for Alma. We will be having a follow up meeting in the fall of 2007.