June 11 & 12, 2025 — 4 Bears Casino & Lodge in New Town, ND. The NORTH DAKOTA Native American Veterans Stand Down, held from June 11-12, 2025, at the 4 Bears Casino & Lodge, successfully brought together Native American Veterans from various tribes, alongside community leaders and service providers, to streamline access to crucial benefits, education, and resources. This event, which aimed to provide a relaxed and supportive atmosphere for veterans, was rooted in a vision by the National Resource Center on Native American Aging, and developed in partnership with Dean Dauphinais, a Marine Corps veteran, and Robert Hunter Sr., Director of MHA Veterans Affairs, and ND State Senator Richard Marcellais.
“The significance of this event lies in its dedication to serving Native veterans by Native people,” shared Dean Dauphinais. “It is a culturally competent gathering that recognizes the unique experiences and challenges faced by Native veterans.”
Dr. Colette Adamson, Director of the National Resource Center on Native American Aging and Research Assistant Professor at the University of North Dakota, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Events like these not only provide veterans with direct access to essential services but also build camaraderie and a sense of community among them.” One of the key aspects of the Stand Down was the opportunity for veterans to connect with various services without the burden of navigating complex systems.
Heather Skadsem, LTSS Tribal Liaison for the Native Aging in Place Project, highlighted heartwarming stories from the event. “We have seen veterans who have previously given up on accessing their benefits receive the assistance they need right here,” she remarked. “For example, an elder veteran who was hesitant to pursue his benefits left our event feeling empowered and reassured, having successfully navigated the claims process.”
The Stand Down event not only focused on providing resources but also aimed to foster an encouraging environment. With support from tribal leaders, government entities, and non-governmental organizations, veterans were able to engage with speakers and service providers, ensuring they left the event with a wealth of knowledge regarding their rights and available support.
The North Dakota Native American Veterans Stand Down is poised to become a staple event in the region, originating at Spirit Lake, providing veterans with the necessary tools and support to enhance their quality of life. With plans for future gatherings at various locations, the initiative continues to grow, ensuring that Native American veterans receive the respect and recognition they deserve.
For more information about the event and future initiatives, please contact National Resource Center on Native American Aging, https://www.nrcnaa.org.
