JOIN US
We are currently looking for new Directors to join our Board. If you are interested, please send an email to contact@fmyn-yif.org.
MEET OUR DIRECTORS
RAPHAEL BEAR
PRESIDENT
CALVIN R. PILCHER SR.
TREASURER
Alicia Balderaz
BOARD MEMBER
MISTI PORTER
BOARD MEMBER
Why is Raphael involved with YIF?
Raphael’s goal for serving on the Yavapai Indian Foundation is to have a supporting influence on the Yavapai Nation, through positive goal development and helping our young adults.
RAPHAEL BEAR – PRESIDENT
Born and raised on the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, Raphael serves as the current President of the Yavapai Indian Foundation. He is also the Acting General Manager for the Eagle View RV Resort, an FMYN Enterprise.
Just a few years removed from the wikiups, his childhood home, made of redwood planks leftover from the City of Phoenix waterline, had dirt floors, no water, electricity or plumbing. But it was just a stone’s throw from the Verde River and the vast Sonoran desert.
He began working for his community in 1974 when he was chosen as one of three community planners for the Tribal Nation. He oversaw and managed major infrastructure planning projects, design coordination and implementation on the reservation. Through that experience he has learned the importance of hard work through dedications and the teachings of his Grandparents and Great Grandparents. He also learned to always be ready for situations that he may be called upon. Raphael served in the United States Marine Corps for six years, with an honorable discharge.
He served as the Tribal General Manager for the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation for three years and was Tribal President from 2004-2008. Raphael is also involved with Arizona American Indian Tourism Association. His service also includes serving as the Chairman of the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona and member of the Arizona Indian Gaming Association.
Why is Roddy involved with YIF?
“I’ve been involved with the Yavapai Indian Foundation since its inception. I would like Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation to succeed as a Nation. But equally important to me is helping other Indian Nations, cultures, and people enjoy similar success.” – Roddy
CALVIN R. PILCHER SR. – TREASURER
“Roddy” is a member of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, and works as the Community Services Division Director for the Tribal government. The Community Services Division is responsible for Parks & Recreation, the Elderly Center, Veteran’s Affairs, and Legal Aid.
Roddy is married and is blessed with beautiful children and grandchildren. An enthusiastic drummer/percussionist, Roddy also loves to fish and is a keen sports fan, both professional and otherwise.
Why is Alicia involved with YIF?
“The opportunity to work alongside like-minded individuals who are dedicated to serving others and creating positive change is incredibly rewarding for me. Being able to see the direct impact of our efforts on the lives of those we serve reinforces my belief in the importance of giving back and inspires me to continue dedicating my time and energy to making a difference.” – Alicia
ALICIA BALDERAZ – BOARD MEMBER
Born and raised in the heart of Texas, my journey led me back to my family’s home community in Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation in 1984. Over the past four decades, I have dedicated myself to serving my community and contributing to the growth and success of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, formerly known as Fort McDowell Casino.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working in various capacities within the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and the casino resort, gaining invaluable experience and insights into the inner workings of our organization. From my early days as a member of the team to my current role as the Director of Human Resources, I have remained committed to fostering a positive work environment and supporting the development and well-being of our employees and community.
As the Director of Human Resources, I am honored to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our organization and ensuring that we continue to uphold the values and traditions that define us. With a deep-rooted passion for serving my community and a wealth of experience in human resources management, I am dedicated to helping our team thrive and achieve their full potential.
Why is Misti involved with YIF?
“As a Native woman, it is my responsibility to assist and empower our people to reach their highest potential and live their greatest lives. I have spent the majority my life working with and for the betterment of Native American communities. The Yavapai Indian Foundation is a way of fulfilling that responsibility.” – Misti
MISTI PORTER – BOARD MEMBER
Misti is an Independent Consultant on Drug Courts/Healing to Wellness and Spirituality and Healing. She has been a Senior Consultant for the National Association of Drug Court Professionals – National Drug Court Institute, Consultant and facilitator for Tribal Law and Policy Institute, SAMHSA – Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, as well as Native specific organizations on Spirituality and Healing to Wellness/Drug Courts for over 12 years.
Misti served as a School Teacher, Police Officer, and a Supervisor for Six Nations Probation and Parole and Brant Counties Bail Verification Programs. Prior to consulting, Misti was employed with Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation from 2000-2011, holding positions as their Wellness Court Coordinator and Probation Officer.
In addition, she is a Master Teacher in Usui & Tera Mia Reike, Master Teacher and practitioner of Shamanic Touch, Third Level Master Energy Healer, a practitioner of Theta Healing and Focus Intention Technique – FIT.
Misti also has years of learning in Native traditional medicines and healing techniques from Native Elders/Healers throughout the United States and Canada.
Contact Us
Thank you for your interest in the Yavapai Indian Foundation. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or inquiries.
ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 18910, Fountain Hills, AZ 85269