Breaking Ground for Urban Indian Housing

Release Date: 08.13.2025 Hoporenkv Native American Podcast: “Breaking Ground for Urban Indian Housing” Special Guest: Shelly J. Tucciarelli, MBA (Oneida Nation of Wisconsin) Executive Director of Visionary Ventures NFP Corporation CEO & Founder of Turtle Clan Development Services Episode Description: Join us on the Hoporenkv Native American Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Shelly J. Tucciarelli, MBA, Executive Director of Visionary Ventures NFP Corporation and CEO & Founder of Turtle Clan Development Services. Shelly, a proud member of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, shares the incredible story behind Jigzibik—Potawatomi for "At the River's Edge"—Chicago's first-ever affordable housing development specifically for the Native American community. We’ll dive into the project's journey, from its humble beginnings to the monumental groundbreaking event. Shelly shares the challenges she overcame and the deep cultural significance behind the name and the land blessing ceremony. We also explore how this development will impact the lives of Native American families in Chicago, the crucial support from city leaders, and the vital role of community partners. Plus, Shelly gives us a glimpse into the future, sharing her hopes and dreams for Jigzibik and how this model could inspire similar projects across the country. Tune in for a powerful discussion about community, housing, and a vision that's finally becoming a reality. Episode Resource Links: https://youtu.be/zT7m8XVXuRk?si=ykCdn3i-IgAmVkdM https://canopy-chicago.com/work/projects/jigsibik/ https://www.fccommunities.org/jigzibik/ https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/mayor/press_room/press_releases/2025/july/jigzibik-affordable-housing.html