Who We Are
Elder
Ron Williams
We work to protect and preserve the customs and traditions of our Ancestors
Our History
Through the encouragement of Ron & Mary Williams, a community formed around them in 2018 to serve native communities near and far. After nearly 3 years of operating under the umbrella of the Pottstown Parks & Recreation Foundation, this foundation planned to close in 2021. In order for Reflection of Turtle Island #ROTI to continue the good work started by Ron and Mary, we took steps to formally create a new and separate 501(c)3.
On June 6th, 2022 we received our IRS decision letter stating that our tax-exempt status was effective the date that they received our application on 12/7/2021.
What We Do
Native & Indigenous Humanitarian Relief Efforts
For a Better Future
Though we are located in Eastern PA, Many of our Tribal communities were forced to leave the East coast for the Mid-West on the Trail of Tears, and so we have connections with those communities today. Our largest relief effort is to come alongside the Wanblee community on the Pine Ridge Reservation, virtually all of whom are members of the Oglala band of Lakota Sioux. Wanbli is the Lakota word for eagle reservation of South Dakota. Our board members take two or more trips a year to deliver much needed supplies. We will soon be posting more info on how others can support our efforts. For now, Pine Ridge was recently in the news due to weather conditions preventing heat refueling. Learn more about the situation by clicking here.
We are always looking to connect with Eastern bands who are still on the East Coast. If you are aware of a community in need of support, please reach out to us via our Contact Page.
Protecting and Maintaining local area burial ground
Located at the intersection of Industrial Highway and Franklin Street, Pottstown PA.
Reflections of Turtle Island #ROTI is truly passionate about preserving culture and heritage right here in Pottstown. One of our Pillars is to maintain and preserve the Native American Burial ground here in town.
Annual Powwow in Pottstown, PA
Another way that Reflections of Turtle Island #ROTI works to preserve culture and heritage in Pottstown, is by Hosting the Powwow on Manatawny Creek. Usually The Weekend Before Mother’s Day.
All Ages of visitors are welcomed to come, set camping chairs up around the outside of the dance circle, and enjoy our vendors, and even participate in inter-tribal dances. Some vendors are cash only, food will be available for purchase, and don’t forget to bring your spring weather gear.
Donations of $10 per family are greatly appreciated.
Native & Indigenous Humanitarian Relief Efforts
Though we are located in Eastern PA, Many of our Tribal communities were forced to leave the East coast for the MId-West on the Trail of Tears, and so we have connections with those communities today. Our largest relief effort is to come alongside the Wanblee community on the Pine Ridge reservation, virtually all of whom are members of the Oglala band of Lakota Sioux. Wanbli is the Lakota word for eagle reservation of South Dakota. Our board members take two or more trips a year to deliver much needed supplies. We will soon be posting more info on how others can support our efforts. For now, Pine Ridge was recently in the news due to weather conditions preventing heat refueling. Learn more
Protecting and Maintaining local area burial ground
Located at the intersection of Industrial Highway and Franklin Street, Pottstown PA.
Reflections of Turtle Island #ROTI is truly passionate about preserving culture and heritage right here in Pottstown. One of our Pillars is to maintain and preserve the Native American Burial ground here in town.
Annual Powwow in Pottstown, PA
Another way that Reflections of Turtle Island #ROTI works to preserve culture and heritage in Pottstown, is by Hosting the Powwow on Manatawny Creek. Usually The Weekend Before Mother’s Day.
All Ages of visitors are welcomed to come, set camping chairs up around the outside of the dance circle, and enjoy our vendors, and even participate in inter-tribal dances. Some vendors are cash only, food will be available for purchase, and don’t forget to bring your spring weather gear.
Donations of $10 per family are greatly appreciated.