Ile - pronounced ee-lay - is a Lakota word that means “light.” The Ile organization is a 501(c)3 charity that exists to make disciples of Jesus, starting with First Nations people, by bringing redemption and restoration, rebuilding broken places, and stewarding the land. We currently serve the Little Earth Community in South Minneapolis, Minnesota through a Biblical and culturally-sensitive focus on meeting basic needs, advocacy and skill development, and consistent, authentic relationships.

Our Beliefs

We adhere to the following guiding principles as we pursue our mission:

  • We believe God created every person with inherent value and importance

  • We believe every person should have the opportunity to heal and thrive

  • We believe we are called to share the heart of Jesus towards His children

  • We believe that empowerment for community and individual change happens through relationships

Vision

At Ile, we envision a restored people, alive in Christ, living with purpose, and whole: spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. We envision families that are strong, leaders that are rising, and generational cycles of trauma and poverty are broken. The land is renewed—safe, vibrant, full of life, and the community reflects the presence of Jesus. People are discipling people and ILE is a blueprint for advancing the Kingdom of God.

Ile does this through establishing meaningful, trust-based, long-term relationships within the community of Little Earth. We help address needs related to basic resources, schooling and child development, skill gaps, self-sufficient advocacy, and wellness. At ILE, we seek to:

  • Empower individuals to step into their unique, God-given strengths and gifts in order to positively impact the world around them

  • Contribute to healing the historical rift between Indigenous peoples and the Gospel

  • Display the love of Jesus for all people

Our Team

Ile staff is comprised of volunteer teachers, pastors, business people, social workers, and college students pursuing degrees in related fields. All staff pass mandatory background checks, complete education related to trauma-informed care, and adhere to specific safety standards.

Ile’s Board of Directors is led by Executive Director Alyssa Ronchak and includes a team of four whose responsibilities include financial oversight and accountability, pastoral care and outreach, volunteer recruitment and management, child advocacy and development, marketing, communications, partner development, and prayer.