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Tribal Members completing a traditional Native American drum

Youth Development

Founded by Chairwoman Erica M. Pinto and her brother Chris Pinto, Acorns to Oaks is a community group developed by the Jamul Indian Village of California focused on educating the next generation of Tribal leaders on their heritage and culture.  Acorns to Oaks also emphasizes the prevention of teen pregnancy and the use of drugs and alcohol. Participants also serve as volunteers in the community, working with many local organizations.

Tribal Members completing a traditional Native American drum

Acorns to Oaks

Nearing Completion of Traditional Drum

Though not a cultural practice of the Kumeyaay in San Diego, drums have an important role in Native American history. They believe the beating of the drum represents the heartbeat of Mother Earth. Playing drums connects you to the Earth and the Great Spirit.

“The kids are excited to see the progress of the drum,” said Chris Pinto. “They are so close, they can almost hear its beat. The kids are taking great pride in crafting an instrument that’s culturally accurate and looks impressive. They have set a goal, and they are accomplishing it.” The project serves the organization’s mission of educating young Tribal Members on their heritage and culture.


Acorns to Oaks Prepares for All Souls Day

All Souls Day is one of the most important days of the year for the Jamul Indian Village of California. In reverence for our ancestors, Tribal Members clear the Reservation’s cemetery of shrubs and decorate the headstones with colorful flowers. When night comes, Tribal Members light candles and place them near the headstones. As Tribal Elder and former Chairman Kenny Meza explains, “It’s like turning on a light for our ancestors.”

Acorns to Oaks works with our Tribe’s younger members to create the paper flowers for All Souls Day.  It takes multiple days throughout the year to complete the flowers needed to decorate the graves to honor our ancestors, and the kids learn about the traditions of our Tribe and its heritage and culture.

“I’m proud of the hard work these kids do in honor of their ancestors,” said Chairwoman Pinto. “We know our ancestors are guiding us to carry on these traditions for generations.”

In 2014, the Jamul Indian All Souls Day video was created to capture the spirit and historical perspective of the day.