I know $5000 doesn't seem like much, so you want to give it to a well-established organization that will take the money and combine it with other funding sources to really make a difference. Thank you for your unselfish generosity. Your ancestors would be proud! Here is my suggestion:
Contact AISES (the American Indian Science and Engineering Society). The AISES mission is to increase substantially the representation of American Indian and Alaskan Natives in engineering, science, medicine and other related technology disciplines. AISES was founded in 1977 by American Indian scientists, doctors, nurses, engineers and educators. In view of the high dropout rates and low college enrollment and graduation rates of American Indians compared with all other ethnic groups in the United States, and the severe under-representation of American Indians in the science and engineering fields, these Native professionals resolved to create an organization that would identify and remove the barriers to academic success for Native students.
Through a variety of educational programs, AISES offers financial, academic and cultural support to American Indians and Alaska Natives from middle school through graduate school. AISES provides professional development activities to enable teachers to work effectively with Native students. AISES also develops culturally appropriate curricula and publications. AISES builds partnerships with tribes, schools, other non-profit organizations, corporations, foundations and government agencies to realize its goals.
Through a variety of mechanisms, AISES accepts contributions that directly support programs and overall organizational administration. Contributions are accepted in many forms, including donations to AISES or the AISES Foundation. The Development Department offers great opportunities for gift giving to AISES and the AISES Foundation. Throuh gifts, AISES can continue to fulfill its long-standing commitment to educational programs, leadership, career, and teacher training, curriculum development, scholarship, internships, fellowships, and reduce its heavy reliance on year-to-year funds.
AISES Foundation site:
http://www.aises.org/giving/ AISES homepage:
http://www.aises.org/index.cfm