Sokaogon Chippewa Community News
Prevention Week Raises Awareness

Photo submitted by Kimberlee Soldier
National Prevention Week was observed last week. This annual observance is designed to raise awareness of the types of services available for Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse (AODA), and to educate community members of the ongoing efforts that are taking place to prevent substance abuse and mental illness.
On Friday, the second annual Walk for Recovery began at the Shell Gas Station in Stone Lake and ended at the Dinesen House in Mole Lake.Nearly 100 participants joined the 10-mile walk.

Photos submitted by Kimberlee Soldier


Kimberlee Soldier is a mother and a Tribal Member in recovery, and helped to organize both events. Kimberlee is honored to have been a part of something so important, and hopes to create a better future for her children, her community and others in recovery.
“Addiction doesn’t hold any discrimination on who it gets or who it attacks,” Kimberlee shared. “Addiction will attack anyone, no matter race, gender, color. It attacks everyone. It’s what we do to help combat that – to help fight that – is what counts.”
A fire will be kept for near the Dinesen House to continue to raise awareness about substance abuse, and for community members to pray for those in recovery or those suffering from addiction. All are welcome to visit and help tend the fire.
“Giving your asemaa (tobacco) and prayers to the Creator, walking around that fire and smudging, it’s to help heal you inside,” Kim said.