Nov 7, 2009 11:08 pm US/Central
Mpls. American Indian Group Helps Others Succeed
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) ―
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The American Indian Opportunities Industrialization Center was started back in 1979 to help cut down on high unemployment and poverty rates among Native Americans in Minneapolis.
CBS
President Obama recently met with more than 500 Native American Tribal Leaders from across the country. Obama says he wants to reverse the Government's history of ignoring the problems of Native Americans.
On some reservations, the unemployment rate is about 80 percent. About a quarter live in poverty.
In Minnesota, Native Americans have some of the highest school dropout and unemployment rates. They also have some of the lowest life expectancy. One group who is trying to change all that.
The American Indian Opportunities Industrialization Center was started back in 1979 to help cut down on high unemployment and poverty rates among Native Americans in Minneapolis.
"We're the only American Indian agency in the city that's primary clientele is American Indians," said Dr. Lee Antell.
There are many programs at the center. Adult basic education, youth programs and career training.
One job club is made up of welfare recipients who are looking to get back in the work force.
"I think it's empowering people, giving them some skills and some tools that they can actually take out there from other people like them that they can see are successful give some hope," said lead employment counselor Christine Marie Smith.
"I've been looking for about six months. It's not an east task by any means. But you got to keep trying, you can't get discouraged. You've just got to keep trying and trying and trying, because eventually it will come to you. You just can't let it get you down, especially when you have a family you have to take care of," said Danielle Marais LaBatte.
Some of the most popular classes are computer training, nursing and business administration. Margaret Castaway was a student six years ago. The former welfare recipient and single mother of six is now an administrative assistant and student representative at the school. She knows first-hand what some of the students are going through.
"I can understand that. Not having the transportation to get to school, not having day care," she explained.
Castaway is still striving to do better.
"I'm enrolled at St. Mary's University in their Human Services Program," she added.
The center also provides transportation help for some programs. The programs are also open to non-Native Americans as well.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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