LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Lake County Behavioral Health Services has announced the grand reopening of the Circle of Native Minds Peer Support Center.
On Friday, April 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the community is invited to Circle of Native Minds’ new location at 525 N. Main St. in Lakeport; the entrance is at the rear of the building on Forbes Street.
Circle of Native Minds is a cultural healing and resource center for members of all seven Lake County-connected tribal nations.
It is dedicated to supporting and preserving Native American culture, especially the healing capabilities of cultural activities, gatherings and events.
Center lead Thomas Leon Brown, the Pathfinders group of local tribal elders and the entire Lake County Behavioral Health Services Department are honored to announce and celebrate the center, its new location and the people it serves.
Highlights of the grand reopening include free Indian tacos, the Elem Pomo Dancers, blessings and messages of hope for our community. The center’s staff will also be in attendance to answer questions or just chat.
“Heckathama” is a powerful word in the Elem Pomo language. Elder Brown explains, “It means ‘How are you?’ and is used to welcome people into our space. The Circle was created to meet the needs of the Native American community through our culturally-enriched traditional ways, using traditional songs, blessings, ceremonies, prayers, medicines and language.”
Elder Brown continues, “You are invited as we provide a place to open your heart for peace and harmony from the great spirits of our ancestors for wellness and goodness. OH!”
The Circle is funded by the Mental Health Services Act, and is a program of Lake County Behavioral Health Services.
For additional information, or questions regarding this event, please contact Thomas Leon Brown or Carrie Manning at Lake County Behavioral Health Services, 707-263-4880.