Meet Jacob Crane

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jacob Crane a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jacob, you’ve got such an interesting story, but before we jump into that, let’s first talk about a topic near and dear to us – generosity. We think success, happiness and wellbeing depends on authentic generosity and empathy and so we’d love to hear about how you become such a generous person – where do you think your generosity comes from?

I would say that my generosity comes from my home community of Tsuut’ina Nation, AB, Canada. Spending my youth on the First Nation taught me so much about looking after one another and the important teachings behind the giveaway. This is what has helped ground me in who I am today as a Tsuut’ina and what it means to look after one another.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My name is Jacob Crane, and I am the Executive Director of Cultural Fire Events. Our journey began during the pandemic. Tribal Nations and communities were greatly impacted by being unable to come together to dance, sing, and celebrate. This is where our story begins with hosting community events like powwows. The Co-founders of Cultural Fire Events also believed that Indigenous people thrive when they are culturally connected. We also started hosting powwows and events to create safe places to continue reinforcing a sense of community and belonging for the Indigenous population of Utah and the Southwest.

The work that Cultural Fire Events is accomplishing helps strengthen the identity of Native American youth and families living off of the reservation. Supporting Native American youth to be rooted in their heritage has not only been shown to help reduce disparities amongst Native Americans, but it also contributes to preserving culture & language.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

I would say that I have a taste for fundraising for nonprofits. I developed this skill out of necessity during the pandemic while supporting Indigenous communities in the southwestern United States. I’ve been told that I have vision for planning ahead and implementing new ideas.

One of the most impactful lessons that I can share with you is this: look at who you are; you have your ancestors with you to support you every step of the way. Even when the journey gets hard or lonely, your community is with you.

Who would’ve thought that a lesson about giving back to one’s community (the Native American Giveaway) would be the framework of an entire nonprofit.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Cultural Fire Events is a nonprofit based out of Utah. We are looking to partner and speak with foundations, firms, or organizations that are willing to support BIPOC nonprofit organizations in the United States. With your generosity, we can continue to make a positive impact within our communities. This is an invitation to reach out to us if you would like to support our work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.culturalfireevents.org/
• Instagram: culturalfireevents
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/culturalfireevents