Meet our Founder

Shekóli,

My name is Barbara Wisneski. I was given my Oneida name at the Mid-Winter Ceremony in 1987. The name given to me by the Elders visiting from Canada was and is Kakwilaha wi (She carried a whip). I am an Oneida Elder, Turtle Clan, living in Appleton Wisconsin.

I have worked as a Home School Coordinator for the Title IX Indian Education Federal Grant in the Appleton Area School District for 10 plus years. While there, the students designed their own t-shirt, and produced a book of art and buffalo hide stories as a keepsake for their families. We had many wonderful adventures - harvested maple sugar, experienced snowshoeing, visited Waswagoning in Lac du Flambeau, and so many other fun activities. I first established First Nations Outreach, Inc. in 1999 as a way to connect with other natives within our community. I wanted to establish a place where Native American people could go and interact with others living in the Fox Valley Area. A way for them to see that they are not alone in their community. Dealing with the urban Indian community is so different then the rez. There are so many people that have lost that connection with their heritage. I guess that's what we are trying to do. Re-establishing First Nations Outreach, Inc. we are moving forward hoping to provide traditions and culture in our urban community. At the same time educate the non native community that we indeed are still here.

I like listening to the birds sing, sunbathing, walking in the rain, and feeling a gentle breeze. These are just a few things that make me appreciate life. I dabble with many art forms but am not an expert in any. I paint, sew, bead, and do numerous crafts all these things keep me very busy. I would like to start a beading circle soon, if you are interested please contact First Nations Outreach, Inc. and let us know.