The voices of the past do not need to haunt the future. 

Nk̓ʷusm’s journey cannot succeed without the involvement of the community. It is not a road to be traveled alone. Reaching the destination will require the talent, knowledge, skill and energy of the community within and without. By coming together with a shared purpose, those who value the Salish langauge and culture can affect the future. 

This is a journey of the whole. The final destination is one beyond imagination, somewhere between here, there and forever.  Lemlmtš - Thank You

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Nk̓ʷusm Endowment: Preserving the Salish Language for Future Generations

We are thrilled to announce the establishment of the Nk̓ʷusm Endowment with the Montana Community Foundation! This new endowment marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to preserve and revitalize the Salish language for future generations.

As the Nk̓ʷusm-Salish Language School, our mission has always been to ensure the perpetuation of the Salish language, which is integral to the cultural identity of the Salish people. Over the years, we have witnessed the increasing demand for language education and resources, as the number of fluent Salish speakers has decreased significantly.

Recognizing the urgency of this situation, we took the proactive step of establishing an endowment with the Montana Community Foundation. This partnership not only allows us to secure a sustainable funding source for our programs and initiatives but also provides us with access to the Foundation's extensive network and resources.

The Nk̓ʷusm Endowment aims to support a wide range of initiatives focused on the preservation and revitalization of the Salish language. We will allocate funds towards activities such as:

1. Salish Language Immersion Programs: We will develop and expand immersive learning experiences that provide students with a comprehensive language education through community partnerships and cultural activities.

2. Curriculum Development: Our endowment will enable us to enhance and update our curriculum, ensuring that it aligns with current linguistic research and pedagogical best practices. We will also develop innovative teaching materials to engage students of all ages.

3. Teacher Training and Professional Development: Recognizing the importance of qualified language instructors, we will invest in the training and professional development of Salish language teachers, equipping them with the necessary skills to provide high-quality education.

4. Community Engagement: Through the Nk̓ʷusm Endowment, we will organize community events, workshops, and cultural gatherings that foster a sense of connection, encourage dialogues, and promote the use of the Salish language within the wider community.

5. Technological Resources: We will leverage technology to develop digital resources such as interactive language apps, online dictionaries, and audiovisual materials, making Salish language learning accessible to a broader audience.

By establishing the Nk̓ʷusm Endowment, we are ensuring the long-term sustainability of our language preservation efforts. With the support of the Montana Community Foundation and our dedicated language warriors, we are confident that the Salish language will continue to thrive and be passed on to future generations.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to the Nk̓ʷusm Endowment, as their generosity will not only impact the present but shape the future of our language and cultural heritage. Together, we will create a lasting legacy that honors the rich history and linguistic traditions of the Salish people. Lemlmtš – Thank you for your continued support!