“Our Story”

‍Omauw Resource Center began with a vision to serve communities through advocacy, education, and culturally grounded support. This journey begin in 2018 with the establishment of Honwungsi Consulting Services, LLC, founded by Valaura Imus-Nahsonhoya and co-founder Brandon Nahsonhoya, both members of the Hopi Tribe, to provide training, technical assistance, victim advocacy, and community-based solutions addressing the needs of Indigenous and underserved communities.

Through more than two decades of experience in victim services, criminal justice, research, training, and community engagement, Valaura worked alongside survivors, families, tribal communities, and system partners to address the complex challenges surrounding violence, victimization, and access to resources. Her work with Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP) initiatives, including Arizona’s MMIP efforts, highlighted the urgent need for culturally responsive advocacy, family support, prevention strategies, and stronger community-based responses. Through Honwungsi Consulting Services, LLC, relationships were built, partnerships were strengthened, and community needs became more evident. Families searching for missing loved ones, survivors seeking support, and communities impacted by violence needed more than resources; they needed compassion, advocacy, and a trusted partner to walk alongside them. These experiences became the foundation for the evolution into Omauw Resource Center, a nonprofit organization committed to expanding services and creating sustainable community-driven solutions.

The name Omauw reflects Hopi values of hope, prayer, and renewal, symbolizing the life-giving relationship between the clouds, rain, and the nourishing growth that sustains our people and communities. It represents the responsibility we hold to care for one another, strengthen our relationships, and support collective healing. Rooted in Hopi teachings and the understanding that we are deeply connected through our relationships with each other, Omauw represents a commitment to stand alongside individuals and families during times of hardship while creating pathways toward healing, hope, resilience, and empowerment.

Today, Omauw Resource Center supports survivors of violence, families impacted by Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP), missing person search and recovery efforts, and individuals recovering from human trafficking. We also focus on prevention and empowerment through youth and men’s programs that promote healing, wellness, leadership development, cultural connection, mentorship, and sport activities that encourage confidence, resilience, healthy choices, and positive life outcomes.