Valentino "Tzigiwhaeno" (Lightning Boy) Rivera
The Lightning Boy Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Northern New Mexico (Santa Fe, NM), dedicated to nurturing confidence, integrity, and cultural connection in youth through dance and artistic expression.
Founded in honor of Valentino “Tzigiwhaeno” Rivera—a boy known for his inexhaustible love of dance who passed away at age 8—the foundation carries forward his legacy by offering traditional hoop dance instruction and other movement-based programming to native children as young as two years old. Its core belief is that cultural arts are powerful tools to build self-worth, resilience, and identity in youth.
Impact & Recognition
The Foundation serves children and youth in Northern New Mexico, creating access to traditional art forms and performance opportunities.
In 2024, Lightning Boy Foundation was honored with the Resiliency Award from the Santa Fe Community Foundation’s Piñon Awards.
Lightning Boy Foundation operates out of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and relies on the generous support of individuals, businesses, and partner organizations to fulfill its mission.
Organization name
Lightning Boy Foundation Inc
Tax id (EIN)
82-0714271
Focus Areas
Youth Development & Empowerment, Arts & Culture
Geographic Area
Urban, Tribal, Regional, Rural
U.S. States and Territories Served
New Mexico
Nonprofit Type
501(c)3
Address
31 TURTLE CIR