According the 2000 U.S. Census there are approximately 41,000 Native Americans living in New York City alone! It is important for students to be aware that New York City itself has a large Native American population with an active Native American/American Indian community. There are many outside resources available such as the American Indian Community House (AICH) that offers social services, as well as social functions such as plays, concerts and art shows through their Indian Art Gallery. There are social organizations such as the Thunderbird American Indian Dancers, Silvercloud Singers, Spiderwoman Theatre group and writer's circles.

The Thunderbirds host a monthly indoor pow-wow and a large annual outdoor pow-wow in July. The National Museum of the American Indian, Smithsonian Institute, also serves as a resource for the general public and often has film festivals, gallery openings and Native American musical entertainment.

The newly formed Society of Native American Health Professionals is a group of health professionals in New York City. This group meets once a month at AICH to keep abreast on all relevant health issues to Native Americans both in New York City and nationally. The Society of Native American Health Professionals welcomes new members, including students, interested in issues related to healthcare.