“Housing is a spectrum,” says Mel Willie, senior director of Native American Partnerships and Strategy at NeighborWorks® America. “And we want to reach people on all parts of that spectrum.”

One fifth of NeighborWorks® America’s nearly 250 network organizations serve in areas that include Native land or include large Native populations. Many have meaningful partnerships.

But for organizations both in and outside the network that are interested in expanding work in Native communities – or those who have little to no experience working with Native organizations – it can be hard to find the right rhythm and footing. How do you know the best way to approach a Native organization? How can you offer help while centering the community’s vision?