The Navajo Nation Native American Indian Reservation encompasses the land, kinship, language, religion, and the right of Navajo people to govern themselves. It extends into the states of Utah, Arizona and New Mexico, covering vast areas of pristine wilderness, majestic canyons, high mountain meadows, dry deserts, flatlands and blue skies. Diné Bikéyah, or Navajoland, is larger than 10 of the 50 states in America and home to more than a dozen national monuments, tribal parks and historical sites. Smith Lake, New Mexico is the site of our southwest rural mission trip. It is located in McKinley County and is the most populous city between Albuquerque, New Mexico and Flagstaff, Arizona and is approximately 45 minutes from Gallup, New Mexico. Gallup is sometimes called the "Indian Capital of the World", for its location in the heart of Native American lands, and the presence of Navajo, Zuni, Hopi and other tribes.

There is a real physical need for the project as many homes lack the modern conveniences of electricity, running water, or telephones.  The Navajo Nation has no urban centers, and most roads remain unpaved. The nation's unemployment rate is 44 percent, the median family income is $11,885, and the per capita income is $6,217. Over 56 percent of Navajos live below the poverty level—one of the highest poverty rate in the U.S., even among indigenous communities. And one of the most alarming statistics is the child poverty rate of 43% for McKinley County. While the data paints a picture of poverty and desolation, the Navajo people still have their land and most enjoy a rich cultural, spiritual, and quotidian life based on small-scale farming and ranching. These human strengths, traditional life-ways, knowledge and talents testify to the quality of the people and their tenacity for survival.

Cornerstone Ministries, Inc. (CMI), located in Smith Lake, NM, is working with Christian pastors of All Nations to improve the lives of Native Americans living on the reservation. CMI is unique in that it was formed by a Christian Native American who understands the challenges, the cultural setting and the needs experienced by those who are living and working in the Four Corners Area. CMI has secured a 25-year lease on the Smith Lake School and are developing the Cornerstone Christian Training and Resource Center. This 24,000 sq ft building is no longer used by the school system, and can be adapted to meet the needs of those in need and renovations there will be the focus of the summer mission trips.

PURPOSE
To teach the spiritual discipline of servant-hood and to apply the principles of Christ-centered community transformation by serving in mission work.

WHERE
Smith Lake, New Mexico in McKinley County.

WHO
Youth Groups, Congregations and Families in partnership with World Vision.

PARTNERS
Smith Lake Chapter, Navajo Nation Government Entity; local churches,
ministries, and community organizations.