HIR Wellness Institute
A place to heal
In June, 2017 Healing Intergenerational Roots (HIR) Wellness became a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization and launched our mission and vision to provide accessible and free mental health care, wellness services, and victim advocacy for Indigenous and underserved victims of violence. In December 2020, HIR Wellness Institute moved onto the Wgema Campus, Forest County Potawatomi Tribal Trust Lands.
*HIR Wellness Institute is a licensed authorized site for the Lea S. Denny Community Activated Medicine Framework™ & CAM™ Mental Health Without Borders Approach™.
HIR Wellness Launches
Advanced Training Clinic
On August 24th, 2023, HIR Wellness Institute celebrated a milestone moment with the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the grand opening of our Advanced Training Clinic for mental health professionals. This event marked the launch of an innovative initiative to train and empower the next generation of helpers, healers, and providers in delivering mental health and advocacy services beyond the office and directly into the heart of our communities.
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It was an inspiring and transformative day, with over 100 attendees coming together to share in our mission of mobilizing help and healing. This gathering of passionate individuals reflected our commitment to creating a future where support is accessible, compassionate, and community-centered. The energy and excitement were palpable, as we continue to shape a new era of care and service for those who need it most.
Ancestral Practices
Culture as Medicine
At HIR Wellness Institute, we honor and integrate our cultural practices into every aspect of our work, recognizing the deep connection between mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. From the moment we step onto the land, we approach our work with reverence and intention. For example, on the morning of our event, you’ll see our team performing a traditional land sweep, a powerful practice that symbolizes our respect for the space we occupy and our commitment to grounding ourselves in honoring ancestral teachings.
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Throughout our programs and activities, we continue to weave in the wisdom of our Indigenous practices, bringing traditional songs, chants, and ceremonies into our healing spaces. These practices are not just ceremonial; they are foundational to our approach in strengthening and healing the whole person. By honoring the mind, body, heart, and spirit, we create a holistic and culturally rich environment that supports the wellbeing of every individual we serve.
This commitment to cultural integrity is what allows us to offer a unique and transformative approach to mental health care, rooted in the strength of our traditions and the resilience of our community.
Mayor Cavalier Johnson
Mayor Johnson delivered an inspiring speech at the HIR Wellness Institute Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, highlighting the critical importance of investing in community mental health and recognizing the transformative work being done at HIR Wellness Institute.
With a focus on equity and access to care, the Mayor emphasized the significance of supporting local organizations that provide culturally responsive, trauma-informed mental health services to underserved communities.
His words reinforced the crucial role that HIR Wellness Institute plays in addressing the mental health needs of individuals and families in the Milwaukee area, particularly those impacted by violence, historical trauma, and systemic inequities.
State Representative
Evan Goyke
On August 24th, 2023, State Representative Evan Goyke honored our CEO & Founder with a Citation of Commendation from the City of Milwaukee, recognizing the innovative work being steered by HIR Wellness Institute. This prestigious plaque acknowledges the institute’s dedication to advancing mental health care and community well-being.
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Representative Goyke's support underscores the collective commitment necessary to strengthen the health of our community, and his remarks highlighted the pivotal role HIR Wellness Institute plays in the ongoing growth and healing of Milwaukee. His recognition further affirms the vital impact of our work and the importance of continuing to invest in culturally responsive, trauma-informed care for all.
Mark W. Powless
Founding Board Member
Mark's character is defined by his honor, humility, and deep compassion. On our board since the start in 2017, he has been a steady advocate for the work we do. He approaches every challenge with a sense of responsibility to the community, always placing the well-being of others at the forefront of his work. His measured and intentional approach allows him to listen and learn, fostering an environment of collaboration and mutual respect.
Above all, it is his heart—his genuine care for the people he serves—that drives his unwavering commitment to justice and healing. Mark’s leadership is rooted in his cultural and personal values, making him an invaluable advocate for our mission and a guiding force in our continued success.
Amy Bogost
Board Member
Amy expressed her heartfelt gratitude and unwavering commitment to the vital work that HIR Wellness Institute does for victims of violence. As a dedicated attorney and passionate advocate for justice, she stewards meaningful change for those who have been impacted by violence.
Her message, delivered with strength and conviction, resonated deeply, calling others to join in the transformative work HIR is leading.
Amy emphasized the importance of investing in the legacy work necessary to build communities that are not only just but also centered in healing and support.
Dr Mark Powless
Clinical Supervisor
Dr. Mark delivered his remarks with a perfect blend of humor and humility, deeply highlighting the invaluable work of HIR Wellness Institute and the critical need for culturally respectful care. He spoke with heartfelt conviction about the importance of understanding and addressing the unique needs of marginalized communities, particularly in the realm of mental health.
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As HIR Wellness Institute's first Clinical Supervisor, Dr. Mark generously dedicated his time and expertise in-kind from 2017 to 2023, playing a pivotal role in shaping the clinical practice of our counseling interns. His leadership was instrumental in ensuring that the interns not only received comprehensive clinical training but also developed a deep understanding of how to provide culturally responsive care.
Under his guidance, our clinical interns were equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to support individuals from diverse backgrounds with compassion, cultural competence, and clinical excellence.​
Skye Alloway
Board Chair
Skye Alloway, our esteemed Board Chair, attended our Ribbon Cutting ceremony with a profound commitment to community health and wellness, underscoring her dedication to improving the lives of children and families.
Skye has been a passionate champion for services that strengthen Indigenous families and empower individuals, particularly those facing adversity.
Her active involvement in our mission helps ensure that our work not only meets immediate needs but also creates lasting, positive change for future generations.
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Her steadfast support continues to drive our collective efforts to make mental health services accessible, culturally responsive, and rooted in community healing.
Emilio De Torre
Executive Director of Milwaukee Turners
During the event, he spoke passionately about the immense value of HIR Wellness Institute’s partnership with the City of Milwaukee and the critical need for our work to expand and receive continued investment. As a steadfast leader committed to justice, equity, and community unity, he emphasized that the success of HIR Wellness is not just a win for our organization, but a win for the entire city.
He highlighted how our innovative approach to mental health and healing is directly aligned with the city’s broader goals of addressing systemic inequalities and creating healthier, more resilient communities.
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Lea S. Denny
CEO, Clinical Director, & Founder
At the heart of our Ribbon Cutting Ceremony stood our CEO, Clinical Director, and Founder, whose visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to healing and wellness made this milestone possible.
With a deep commitment to expanding access to mental health care and transforming the way services are delivered, she has worked tirelessly to create a space that reflects our mission of healing and community care. As she cut the ribbon, the moment symbolized not only the opening of our Advanced Training Clinic but also the culmination of years of hard work, passion, and determination to bring mental health services directly to those who need them most.
Her leadership continues to inspire our team and the communities we serve, guiding us toward a future where healing, empowerment, and support are accessible to all.
Intergenerational Healing
Growing Community Together
Dr. Courtney Barry, our Board Treasurer & Secretary (holding purple ribbon), is a dedicated advocate and leader in community mental health. Her unwavering commitment to supporting community-driven initiatives, fostering partnerships, and connecting resources to meet critical needs is truly commendable. She consistently works to promote equitable and just practices within mental health services, ensuring they are accessible to all.
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At our event, the Daughters of Traditions (DOT) girls proudly stood with their facilitators. Through our program, they are empowered to embrace leadership, decision-making, and advocacy as integral aspects of mental health. By actively participating in community engagements, events, and CAMPsites™ youth outreach, they learn the importance of mental health advocacy while making a meaningful impact on their communities.
Leaders For The People
We Are In This Together
HIR Wellness Institute is guided by the Indigenous teachings of the Children's Fire, which emphasizes healing, accessibility, and community care. We offer mental health counseling, advocacy, wellness services, and consultations at no cost, striving to create culturally responsive systems of care.
Our Board of Directors, including community advisors and Elders are helping us redefine traditional governance by embodying integrity, humility, heart, humor, honesty, reciprocity, and integrating the values of the people we serve. We seek a paradigm shift in board governance, one rooted in equity, trauma-informed and Healing-Informed Practices™, and community activation.
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