By Carl Manning, American Red Cross 

Over the years, JoAnn Woody has been the face of the American Red Cross in the Missouri-Arkansas Region to many partner organizations. Recently, due to her efforts, the Red Cross has developed a new partnership with the Northern Cherokee Nation. It is the first partnership between the Missouri-Arkansas Region of the Red Cross and a tribal nation. 

At a recent pow-wow in Clinton, Missouri, Principal Chief Kenn Grey Elk bestowed on JoAnn her honorary tribal name, “E Qua A Da Nv Do” which translates to “Big Heart.” The name is fitting, not only for her work with the Northern Cherokee, but also for years of humanitarian service with the Red Cross, from helping home fire victims to overseeing recovery operations during numerous major disasters throughout the nation.  

The Chief explained that the honorary name is a high honor. “She’s a friend of the nation. The name came to us as a sign of respect. It means we honor and think a lot of her.” 

There are more than 3,000 Northern Cherokee tribal members in Missouri, Arkansas and other states. Each year they gather at the tribal complex for the annual pow-wow, a tradition dating back to the 1940s. 

Chief Kenn Grey Elk explained that the pow-wow is a time for family and friends from near and far to catch up with what has happened since the last gathering and to enjoy each other’s company. 

On the day JoAnn attended the pow-wow she watched as he and other members participated in the traditional Gourd Dance, despite temperatures in the 90s. The day continued with other tribal members performing ceremonial dances. 

JoAnn began talking to Chief Kenn Grey Elk and tribal leadership last year about ways the Red Cross could partner with the Northern Cherokee Nation in humanitarian efforts. A philanthropic donor focused on community resiliency provided financial support. She wanted to see if the Northern Cherokee would be interested in engaging as a partner in mass care to take care of the community however they feel best.  

Under the agreement, the Northern Cherokee Nation received a new mass care trailer filled with supplies to respond to a disaster. Going forward, the tribe will work with the Red Cross on disaster training and how to respond to needs in their community. 

“It’s beneficial for all of us,” Chief Kenn Grey Wolf said. “Because we will be able to help those in need.”