SACRAMENTO, Calif – October 16, 2025— The Sacramento Native American Health Center
(SNAHC) celebrated the success of its inaugural fundraiser, First Foods Dinner: An Indigenous
Culinary Experience, held October 4, 2025, at the Mack Powell Event Center. The event raised
more than $110,000 to support SNAHC’s vision of a thriving, inclusive community guided by
Native traditions that support our modern, holistic care approach; fostering physical, mental,
emotional, and spiritual well-being for generations to come through a commitment to healing
and equity.
The evening featured a six-course prix fixe menu curated by James Beard Award finalist Chef
Crystal Wahpepah (Kickapoo) and Chef Sara Calvosa Olson (Karuk)—two leading voices in
Indigenous foodways and food sovereignty. Chef Wahpepah, owner of Wahpepah’s Kitchen in
Oakland, is the first Native American woman to own a catering business. Her work centers on
ethical sourcing, community connection, and Indigenous food sovereignty. Chef Olson, author
of Chími Nu’am: Native California Foodways for the Contemporary Kitchen, explores the
intersection of storytelling, Indigenous food systems, and cultural reconnection through her
writing and cooking.
Each course was paired with educational insights about its sourcing and cultural significance.
The evening also featured patient success stories from SNAHC health care providers and a silent
auction with items from local businesses and organizations.
“We are deeply grateful for the generous support from our sponsors and everyone who made
the First Foods Fundraiser such a success,” said SNAHC CEO Britta Guerrero (San Carlos
Apache). “Every dollar raised helps us remain grounded in our purpose to provide holistic,
culturally respectful care and strengthen the connection between traditional foods, community,
and health.”
This inaugural fundraising effort reflects the organization’s plan to make this an annual event.
SNAHC extends appreciation to its sponsors which totaled over $70,000: Wilton Rancheria, The
California Wellness Foundation, UC Davis Health, Mercy Medical Group, Molina Healthcare,
Nugget Markets, Sierra Health Foundation, Sutter Health, SMUD, and the Shingle Springs Band
of Miwok Indians.
Sacramento Native American Health Center is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) Federally Qualified Health
Center committed to being a patient-centered health home open to everyone. Rooted in Native
American values, we provide high quality, holistic, and innovative health care by incorporating
modern and traditional healing practices that support the wellness of individuals and families to
empower the communities we serve. SNAHC offers primary care, oral health, behavioral health,
specialty care, and supportive services in multiple locations. For more information on SNAHC,
visit www.snahc.org or call 916-341-0575 for an appointment.
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