who we are

The American Indian Center of Springfield (AICS) is a non-profit organization that promotes Native culture to the Southwest Missouri area while creating an inclusive environment for our entire community. Alongside our various cultural classes and events, AICS aims to better the lives of the Native population in our region by assisting them in accessing valuable resources and bettering their overall health by providing easy access to fresh foods.

AICS strives to address many socio-cultural, ecological, and economic challenges that many underrepresented populations face today. AICS brings awareness to our communities' challenges, inspiring social change along the way. Our youth loves to get involved, paving the way for future generations. Indigenous arts and cultures are the roots that have kept First Nation societies grounded throughout the generations, and are integral to every aspect of indigenous modern life.

our history

In June of 1986, Ed Loonsfoot, of Chippewa descent, and Vince Aragon of the Taos tribe created and brought forth the original American Indian Center.

In January of 2020, local Springfield Native Americans realized that there were community needs in the Springfield area that were not being met. They put together a grassroots movement and started working toward the reactivation of the American Indian Center of Springfield (AICS). The group partnered with the Drew Lewis Foundation and received guidance and direction, pushing us forward.

In May of 2023, AICS was fully reactivated to further the mission of the original AICS through implementing programs that bring awareness of the First Nations cultures to the local community. Today, AICS draws support through gatherings from Natives in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Since then, AICS has grown tremendously, holding numerous classes, educational programs, and cultural events for the community to partake in. We are very appreciative of our supporters, community, and volunteers, and we are very honored to have formed incredible partnerships during the evolution of AICS.