About Friends of the Warao
501(c)3 Nonprofit
Welcome to Friends of the Warao, a Michigan-based 501(c)(3) non-profit working in partnership with the Warao indigenous communities in Brazil. Our mission is to support mutual growth through economic development, cultural exchange, and sustainable initiatives. Together, we are building bridges between the U.S., Brazil, and the Warao to create opportunities that honor their rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship. By fostering collaboration, we aim to empower the Warao as they navigate new challenges, ensuring their voices and skills are central to shaping their future.
WHO WE ARE
About the Warao
Preserving Cultural Heritage
The Warao are an indigenous group originating from the Orinoco Delta of Venezuela. Due to a combination of factors such as political instability, economic struggles, and environmental changes, a significant number of Warao people were compelled to leave Venezuela. Seeking better opportunities and safety, many of them migrated to other countries. Presently, there are eight distinct communities of more than 700 Warao members residing in Belem, Brazil, where they are working to rebuild their lives while preserving their cultural heritage in a new environment.
Take A Glimpse Into The World of The Warao
WHAT WE DO
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Funding Initiatives: We aim to raise funds with the long-term goal of supporting essential projects that focus on economic empowerment, sustainable development, healthcare, and education within the Warao communities.
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Collaborative Partnerships: We work closely with our project managing partner, the Brazilian nonprofit organization, the International Institute of Brazilian Education (Instituto Internacional de Educação do Brasil), local Brazilian and Warao leaders, and are in contact with other local NGOs to ensure that our projects are well-aligned with the needs and aspirations of the Warao communities. Together, we strive to create a network of support that amplifies the voices of the marginalized.
OUR VALUES
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Empowerment: We are committed to empowering the Warao people by providing them with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to take control of their own futures.
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Cultural Respect: We respect and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Warao communities, aiming to preserve their traditions while supporting them in developing sustainable projects that can improve their quality of life.
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Sustainability: We are dedicated to fostering sustainable growth and development that will have a positive and lasting impact for generations to come.