About Us
Location & Impact
Located at 1501 Geneva Street in Sioux City, Urban Native Center offers a community center location that is safe and welcome for programs, gatherings, events, and cultural ceremonies. As a result of services and resources, UNC impacts the lives of up to 2,500 people each year.
A Multicultural Resource Center
UNC serves as an inter-tribal resource for the four local Tribes including but not limited the iSantee, Omaha, Ponca and Winnebago.
The Center is a multicultural resource for the Siouxland Community for both Native and non-Native community members.
Goal and Mission
The goal and mission of Urban Native Center is to provide individual and community services that include cultural, spiritual, educational, and behavioral support to Indigenous community members in Siouxland, serving Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota.
Vision
The vision of Urban Native Center is
- To provide a continuum of community support that includes cultural, spiritual, education, and behavioral support; and
- To provide support for shelter, transportation, and overall wellness.
History
Urban Native Center is a 501c3 nonprofit organization founded in 2018, led by a dedicated Board of Directors that identify as Indigenous and represent the multiple tribes in Siouxland..
Leadership & Board of Directors
Making a Difference
Executive Director, Valerie Uken .
Valerie Uken, Executive Director. Val Uken serves as the Executive Director. Val has Yankton Sioux and German blood. She is a life-long resident of Sioux City, IA and attended West High School. Valerie is a first-generation college graduate from Morningside College, where she had a 4-year full-ride athletic scholarship. Her studies focused on a bachelor’s degree, majoring in criminal justice, minor in social studies, teaching, and coaching.
Board of Directors.
UNC maintains a skilled board dedicated to lead and guide the mission of UNC. UNC Board members include
- Karen Mackey (Sioux City Human Rights Commission)
- Ora Parker (Winnebago Tribe)
- Tito Parker (Western Iowa Tech)
- Ron Koch (Sioux City Community School District)
- Manape LaMere (Cultural consultant/advocate)
- Kenny Provost (Urban Indian Connections - Youth Cultural Coordinator)
