Honoring Traditions While Strengthening Community

The men of the Northeast Hethuska Society are committed to preserving the cultural traditions shared with us by the Ponca Hethuska, while supporting the community that carries us forward. Through spirituality, brotherhood, ceremony, and education, we share the responsibility of our commitment to honor those who have gone before us, so we may build for the future.

About the Hethuska

The Hethuska is traditionally a warrior society of the Ponca people. Conceived in honoring men possessing responsibility, generosity, and service. It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated courage and leadership not exclusively in times of conflict, but including their ability to show compassion, and caring for others within their community.

The Hethuska brings forth songs, dances, and teachings that express and uphold these values, which are maintained through the guidance of the headman (NudoN’hoNga) with his chosen committee who continue the traditions which were shared with us by the Ponca.

Hethuska ceremony

A special thank you to our friend Clara/James Thetford, for the use of their photographs on this site.

Northeast Hethuska Society

History of the Northeast Hethuska Society

We are a comparatively small organization committed to the aims and goals of the original members, which were established in the 1970’s. The society was known as the AIS Hethuska. It was founded by men dedicated to following the Native American traditions shared with them by the Ponca tribe. Our aim is to adhere to these traditions that were handed down to us and maintain our connection to the evolving customs that the Ponca people continue to share with us.

Over the decades, we have given away thousands in scholarships as well as direct donations to people and families in need. Our gifts have been given within our circle and neighborhoods, as well as to western reservations and local shelters. Our giving is not limited to monetary gifts; we deliver food baskets to families as well as our members. We donate time and energy to service projects, assisting local people and other charitable organizations in need of labor and materials.

Annually, we gather for our ceremonial dance, where we come together to dance and reflect to generate positive energy and a spiritual connection to each other and our place on this earth. We collect donations to further our charitable giving away. But we could use your help.

Learn more about the NHS

Our Mission

We honor the teachings entrusted to us by the Ponca people by preserving the songs, dances, and values of the Hethuska, strengthening community through service and generosity, and supporting future generations through education and shared purpose.

Our Values

Honor

Living with integrity, respect, and gratitude for those who came before us.

Responsibility

Serving our entire family and community with humility and purpose.

Courage

Standing strong in the face of challenges and carrying our teachings forward.

Tradition

Preserving the songs, dances, and values of the Hethuska for future generations.

Our Impact and Support

The Northeast Hethuska Society supports cultural preservation, community needs, and the continuation of Ponca teachings. Through the generosity of our members, families, and friends, we provide direct assistance that strengthens our people and honors our traditions.

How We Supported

  • Assistance for families in need
  • Emergency support for community members
  • Help with cultural participation costs
  • Support for charitable organizations
  • Scholarships for youth and students
  • Veteran support initiatives

$2,100

Direct support to families in our community and out west, helping with travel, emergencies, and participation in cultural gatherings.

$981

Support for charitable organizations, including the Ponca Coat Drive, Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, Run to Home Base (Veterans), Redwood City GoFundMe, and Vermont disaster relief.

$1,500

Scholarships awarded to support educational goals and honor the values of service, leadership, and community responsibility.

Total Support Provided in 2025:
$4,581

Looking Ahead

  • Expanding youth involvement
  • Strengthening ceremonial resources
  • Supporting elders
  • Continuing assistance for families and veterans

This work is guided by the Headman and supported by The Committee, whose members help ensure that our responsibilities, resources, and traditions are carried forward with care.

The Committee

The Committee supports the Headman and helps guide the responsibilities, organization, and cultural work of the Northeast Hethuska Society. Through service, planning, and shared purpose, they ensure that our gatherings, traditions, and community commitments remain strong for future generations.

Committee (HoN’ga)

Larry Thetford
Dennis Wood
Ed Coughlin
Greg Wood
Mike Warner (Cook, U’haN)
Alan McCartney

Headman Luke Ciarfella

Headman
(NudoN’hoNga)

The Headman guides the songs, dances, and responsibilities of the Hethuska. Luke Ciarfella serves with dedication, humility, and deep respect for the teachings passed down through generations. His role helps ensure that our gatherings remain strong, culturally grounded, and welcoming to all.

Society Roles

Camp Crier (Waje’pa)
Rich Williams

Whipman (WanoN’she)
Chris Ciarfella
Chris Tate

Tail Dancer (SiN’de)
Matthew Wood
Tim Lyle
Eric Sandoval
Dakota Lyons

Water Carrier (NiN’athiN)
Reid Thetford

Veteran Affairs
Nathan Wood