Following completion of her graduate work, Deer returned to the Midwest to be closer to the Menominee Nation, settling in Minneapolis. She found few local services in place for Native Americans living in urban settings. She worked to advocate on their behalf with federal authorities. She also led a newer generation of Native American Leaders which helped gain acceptance of self-determination in things that they do, but also works to implement it consistently. Ada Led the Menominees in their drive to restore the ties that their tribe had with the federal government in 1991. Ada Deer does this because in 1991 she became the head of the Native American Right's Fund. This is a large accomplishment, which led to immense leadership capabilities. In the book, American Indians by Hagan, Ada Deer is described as a part of the "increasing number of women" that are making a difference in the Native American environment.