Newport Beach CA—True Sioux Hope Foundation, a 510c3 nonprofit whose mission is to inspire unprecedented, permanent and positive change for the Sioux Tribe of Pine Ridge, South Dakota, by providing critical aid and support for a sustainable infrastructure, announced today that Shawn Imitates Dog will attend the Gala.
Mr. Imitates Dog grew up with a strong work ethic instilled in him from an early age by his grandparents, who often walked many miles in inclement weather to work for a local farmer. Being raised with this type of determination helped propel Mr. Imitates Dog to a highly successful career in Human Resources in the entertainment industry, starting at House of Blues and eventually giving him unprecedented opportunities to help open some of the largest entertainment complexes in the world including the L A Live Complex in Downtown Los Angeles. After working at some of the most prominent entertainment organizations in the country, Mr. Imitates Dog returned to House of Blues where he now serves as Vice President of Human Resources.
“I’ve never forgotten where I came from,” said Mr. Imitates Dog. “I am forever connected to the people of Pine Ridge and I know their daily struggles and how much they want to work and thrive. Because there are very few employment opportunities on the Reservation, the unemployment rate on Pine Ridge is 90%, which is unacceptable. I support True Sioux Hope’s ongoing programs to provide commerce and employment opportunities as well as lifesaving supplies such as food and firewood.”
Mr. Imitates Dog remains an active member and advocate in the Native American community. Currently, he is on the American Indian Commission for the County of Los Angeles, and a board member for Inland Theater in his hometown of Martin, SD. In addition to his board role, he is active with the Red Circle Project at APLA Health & Wellness, and the Entertainment Human Resources Network. Previously, he was the Board President for the Southern California Indian Center, Treasurer for The Nakwatsvewat Institute, and Vice President for the American Indian Community Council.
“It is our great honor to have Shawn among our guests for the first annual Gala,” said Twila True, founder of True Sioux Hope Foundation and Gala co-organizer along with local philanthropist Donna Pickup. “He is a shining example of the spirit, strength and stamina that we who are from Pine Ridge are made of. “
The first annual True Sioux Hope Gala will be a culturally immersive experience that will include a cocktail reception, music, dancing, live and silent auctions and a chance to learn more about how to support the people of Pine Ridge, South Dakota – the poorest place in the United States. All funds raised at the event will benefit True Sioux Hope Foundation’s lifesaving and critical aid programs. To purchase tickets, please visit www.truesiouxhopegala.org/tickets.
To learn more about True Sioux Hope Foundation’s lifesaving work and programs and how you can help, please visit www.truesoiuxhope.org