Indian Cooperative Association, Inc.
Our work begins with listening to our people, recognizing a need, and taking action.
ICA is a grassroots organization bringing people together to make a difference for our Native families, elders, and youth.
Through our completed Shilo furniture project, ICA received more than 250 beds, along with furniture and household goods, and helped hundreds of tribal members. Volunteers collected, transported, organized, and distributed these donations — putting useful items into homes where they were needed.
ICA has organized property cleanup efforts involving weeds, tires, fencing, and other needs around elders' homes. These projects bring volunteers together to help make homes and yards safer while reminding our elders that they have people they can turn to.
ICA has helped distribute eggs, meat, potatoes, and other food to people in need. We also connect donated household items and supplies with families who can use them. We are seeking support to expand through Thanksgiving food assistance, Christmas gifts, and community meals.
ICA's youth efforts include football support and employment training through work with Big Sass. Young people have had opportunities to practice teamwork, customer service, food handling, and responsibility. We are working toward more sports, cultural activities, mentorship, and learning opportunities.
ICA's mission includes cultural preservation, traditional knowledge, education, and advocacy. We create opportunities for elders and knowledge keepers to share teachings and skills with younger generations. We also help community members communicate their needs and connect with resources.
ICA is seeking approximately 20 acres in the Fort Hall area for a future community campus. Our vision includes donation storage, an ICA headquarters, meeting space, a homeless shelter with a kitchen, and an outdoor football and activity field. Longer-term goals include housing, a hogan-style gathering building, and a funeral home serving our people.
Join Us
Our community work has been carried out by volunteers giving their time without pay. Every donation, load hauled, item delivered, and hour volunteered helps turn care into action. We are people standing together to make a change for our people — and build a stronger future for the generations coming after us.