James DeLa Cruz, Sr. of Quinault Indian Nation in Taholah, Washington, has been serving on the National Indian Council on Aging’s (NICOA) board of directors for nearly 40 years.
Previously he was a national Title VI director. He secured funding for tribal governments as well as Title VI programs. “I’m thankful I’ve had the opportunity to address the needs of Indian elders,” he said.
As a member of NICOA’s board of directors, James says he’s had the opportunity to work with many gifted people in Indian and non-Indian Country. “I’ve made a lot of great connections,” he said, “and many friends in the field of aging.”
He likes being part of an advocate organization that listens to elders and has enjoyed working with them through the years. It was the elders of his tribe that encouraged him to become a member of NICOA’s board.
“Elders give a different perspective,” said James. “They’re a gift. Elders give medicine, knowledge, assistance in our personal lives. We need them.”
This is Brian Crump from the confederated tribes of Siletz. We are trying to get reservations for the upcoming NICOA trip. I have called the nugget a number of times but to no avail. Is there anything that could be done about this? We need 34 rooms in total. Thank you so much for your time.