Dorothy Renee Gaines

Program Development, Grant Writing & Fundraising

Dorothy’s Indian name is Aamaa Aguu Itchaa Chiilish, meaning “One Who Seeks Wisdom,” given to her by her grandmother, Mitchelene Big Man. Dorothy is a proud member of the Bad War Deeds Clan from Wyola, MT, on the Apsáalooke (Crow) Reservation. She graduated from Lodge Grass High School in 2002 and is the loving mother of two amazing children, Mia-Marie and DaShawn.

​

Immediately after graduating high school—and following the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center—Dorothy joined the United States Navy, where she served for 12 years as an Engineer. After her military service, she worked with the United States Postal Service for 10 years as a City Letter Carrier, Distribution Clerk, and Special Delivery Clerk.

​

In 2023, she returned home to Wyola to care for her elderly mother, Dorothy Stops Gaines, and to give back to her community. Dorothy has since become involved in nonprofit work. She says she feels incredibly blessed to be part of Messengers for Health, serving as a Community Mentor for the Wyola District Báa nnilah Health Program.

​

Dorothy was also honored to be selected as the Secretary for the Native American Women Warriors—the first all-female, all-Native, all-veteran color guard nonprofit organization, which supports active and retired Native American servicewomen in their transition from military to civilian life.

​

She is also a proud member of the Apsáalooke Nation Lady Warriors, a local color guard on the Crow Reservation. Additionally, Dorothy was appointed Chairwoman for the development of Crow Times, led by CEO David R. Blaine. This initiative serves Apsáalooke youth and elders by providing opportunities rooted in traditional values to help build a strong future for generations to come.

​

Dorothy currently works as a Contracted Project Manager for the Wyola Development Fund, where she collaborates with Leslie Kabotie and the Mighty Few District on community development projects. She is a participant in the Native Organizers Alliance Fellowship Program, helping to build long-term power in her community.

​

Dorothy also created her own support group, the Apsáalooke Women’s Healing and Support Group, to foster sisterhood and healing among women, teens, and girls on the Crow Reservation. The group offers Bible study, ministry, prayer, and healing spaces.

​

Currently, Dorothy is pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at Capella University.