Elements of the Organization

AIS Library:
The AIS Library has one of the most extensive collections of Indian and Indian-related information in New England. It features books pamphlets, periodicals, educational media and maps. Most of these items have been donated by AIS members.

AIS Youth Committee:
The purpose of the Youth Committee is to encourage the younger members to become involved in the activities of AIS. Some activities are specifically designed for the youth members or they may participate in teh activities of the general membership.

Talking Leaves:
This newsletter is referred to as T.L. It is the official publication of AIS and is published 10 per year. Included in each issue are meetings announcements, an events calendar, craft instructions, educational articles, announcements of special programs in and outside of the organization and advertisements.

Les Bircher Memorial:
The Les Bircher Fund was established by the American Indianist Society, Inc. to enable us to fulfill one of our primary missions as an organization:

  "To provide charitable assistance to needy and worthwhile projects for the benefit of American Indian peoples."

Moneys collected in this fund are only used for that purpose. The American Indianist Society Council depends upon members who become aware of such a need to contact a Council member with any information they may have so that the Council may act upon the request for support.

Peter Reidy Memorial:
The Peter Reidy Fund was established in 1975 to assist the AIS as a society and to assist individuals within the society whom the committee feels are in need of assistance.

Craft shows:
Craft Shows is held at several pow-wows. This exhibition provides you with the opportunity to display your craft work and to study the craftwork of others. The shows are usually held in the arbor and the craftwork is displayed on blankets and benches. Ribbons are awarded, but awards are really secondary to the learning potential presented to those who attend the show.

Educational Seminars:
Periodically, AIS sponsors and co sponsors workshops and seminars on various craft techniques, dance steps specific regalia and singing, These workshops are announced in Talking Leaves.

Artifacts Sales
Artifact sales are held as a fund raiser for AIS. Items are donated and auctioned off with a percentage of sales going to AIS. Many people give the items to AIS so all that all proceeds from sales will go into the general fund.

Marie Radice Award
This award is presented at craft shows for excellence in Native American craftwork and research. Marie had been making Native American regalia for many years and she was known for her intensive research and precise attention to detail. Marie's craftwork set a standard of excellence we should strive to achieve. This award is now given in her memory.