Early on a September morning, photographer Ashley Hathaway and I embarked on a
journey northward, our curiosity piqued and our hearts open. Our destination: Joseph City, just
off the Navajo Nation, home to NAOMI House, a sanctuary for Native American children in
need.
This trip unfolded unexpectedly; all sparked a few weeks prior by a serendipitous mention of the organization through a local church some of you may know as "Church at the Chip" in Cave Creek. The church had been working with NAOMI House for quite some time and was announcing their latest donation of a van. I was moved by the Church’s involvement, yet I had no idea that in just a few months I would be driving there to meet their Executive Director, Genevieve Skidmore. As our November issue lingered on the horizon, and I contemplated the
theme of gratitude, it struck me like a lightning bolt—NAOMI House was not only a story to tell,
but I wanted to know more.
Founded in 1993 by Linda Thompson, The Native American Outreach Ministries, Inc.
(NAOMI) emerged as a non-profit safe haven for Native American children who endure
alarming rates of abuse, making NAOMI House an essential refuge for those in crisis. Operating as a front-line emergency shelter, NAOMI provides sustenance, clothing, shelter, safety, and prayer whenever the need arises. Thompson's vision was profound yet simple: "It takes a village to raise a child, but when a child has been abused and wounded, it takes more than just one village - it takes many." NAOMI embodies one of those vital villages, with dedicated individuals like Genevieve Skidmore who’s been serving as its executive director for over 15 years.
That morning we arrived at a collection of buildings sitting on a few acres of natural land
situated on the lower part of the Colorado Plateau and just off Interstate 40. The landscape in this area is a wide and colorful mesa with low brush and bright blue skies with big puffy clouds. The air was warm, and there was a light breeze. It felt calm and expansive. The kids were in school, and we wouldn’t be able to meet them, so Skidmore invited us into the office where she shared her incredible journey. Genevieve spoke with such conviction and powerful authenticity. Both Ashley and I were instantly captivated by her testimony and passion for the mission.
Genevieve Dawn Skidmore is a member of the Oglala Lakota Sioux Tribe of South
Dakota on her mother’s side and grew up in South Dakota near the Pine Ridge Reservation. Her own experience with addiction, abuse, and ultimately an encounter with God is what led her
eventually to serve at the Naomi House. When she first arrived, she wasn’t sure she was cut out for the work, fearing it was too much which anyone could understand.
NAOMI House is contracted by the Navajo Nation as an emergency shelter for twelve
children and licensed as a full-term foster care for ten more. The dedicated staff, consisting of six adults and up to twenty-six children, operates tirelessly, serving on the front lines 365 days a
year, until the children can hopefully be reunited with their biological families.
Despite moments of doubt, Skidmore’s unwavering sense of purpose drove her forward. She recalls this early time in her autobiography titled Send Me I’ll Go, “After one weekend, I knew I couldn’t be the same. I didn’t know what saying ‘yes’ meant. I had no way of knowing what I was getting ready to step into. But I knew I was called to Native American ministry.” This dedicated spirit motivates Skidmore and the staff to create a safe and nurturing environment for the children around the clock, providing them a dependable schedule, love, and access to healthcare through the local IHS (Indian Health Care Center). Over the years, countless children have found refuge at NAOMI House, their stories filled with both heartache and the joy of family reunification.
NAOMI House's vision extends beyond its current location. They aspire to sustain and expand their safe houses, introduce a young adult program for transitioning youth, and emphasize family reunification and healing in various locations across the country. They've recently begun to establish a presence on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. They are able to continue their work with funding from tribal contracts, emergency shelter services, and foster care. Yet approximately half of their support comes from the generous monthly donations made by individuals inspired to help.
After our conversation, Ashley, Genevieve, and I ventured outside to take photos and explore the property. We walked the grounds, our hands shielding our eyes from the bright sun. Genevieve pointed out the location for a future residence where she and her family would eventually reside. Nearby, the beginnings of a barn hinted at plans for equine therapy and even a garden. The vision is beautiful.
As we stood engrossed in conversation near the fence, on the other side, a herd of wild horses appeared galloping toward us. They abruptly halted, kicking up a cloud of dust that swirled high above as they began to nibble the dry grass and keep watchful eyes on us. In their presence, I saw a reflection of the enduring spirit that defines both NAOMI House and those who whole-heartedly dedicate themselves to a greater purpose.
NAOMI House stands as a beacon of hope on the Navajo reservation, addressing an urgent need faced by many Native American communities. It's an oasis in the desert of adversity, offering solace to children who have endured unimaginable trials. The work of NAOMI House is indispensable, and its impact resonates far beyond the walls of this haven.
As Thanksgiving approaches, we're reminded of the tireless efforts of individuals like Genevieve Dawn Skidmore and the vital work of organizations like NAOMI House. In the spirit of thankfulness, let us rally behind their mission and contribute to a brighter future.
If you're interested in supporting NAOMI House and making a positive impact in the lives of Native American children or want to know more, please visit their website at www.thenaomihouse.org or call 928-587-5737. After all, it takes a village.
Skidmore, G. (2021). Send Me I’ll Go: Preparing for the Call. Trilogy Christian Publishers.
Genevieve, in addition to her role at NAOMI House, is the Founder of Preparing for the Call and tribes arise NETWORK. Her book, "Send Me I'll Go," serves as both a testament to her journey and a prophetic call to awaken, arise, and respond to the Kingdom's purpose. As an ambassador of First Nations, Apostolic teacher, author, speaker, and child advocate, Genevieve fervently spreads the life-changing message of hope found in Christ. She knows firsthand the power of God to deliver from darkness, a knowledge that fuels her unrelenting passion to help others find freedom and discover their purpose.
