A Letter from our Executive Director

Nxtwáima (enxg-twy-mah) Friends,

Thank you so much for supporting Columbia River Institute for Indigenous Development (CRÍID) Foundation, and our efforts to educate and partner with students, teachers, and community members of the Columbia River and beyond. I want to personally express my appreciation for supporting programs that strengthen identity, place, and balance and build connection through learning.

As we have all experienced, this year has been a challenge.  We’ve had to become more creative in how we serve our community, students, teachers, and elders. For safe learning, we have utilized YouTube, Facebook, Text Messaging, Zoom, and Email to educate and build awareness. Some online sessions have had a minimum of 12 people while other sessions have gotten as large as 90 people. 

Our cultural learning services and trainings with educational institutions and organizations both local and across the country, are now held completely online-we are all learning to adapt.

Much of the the work we do has a direct impact on our community. We continue to support our elder teachers with stipends and a sense of pride in their knowledge. We’ve been able to provide students with cultural support and guidance on their learning journey. And sadly, we have seen an increase in the spiritual services we provide to families who’ve lost loved ones due to Covid-19, and or other root causes. 

Your support and belief in the CRÍID Foundation instills understanding of history, strength in heart, and pride in identity. With you, the Pacific Northwest Indian language, customs, and culture and our connection with the Columbia River will forever remain together. 

We have much to do together.

Jefferson Greene, Executive Director