By Caitlin Lundgren

Your generosity open doors

See how your generosity opens doors for local Indigenous youth

Dec 12, 2022 | 9:32 AM

It’s the season of giving, and a small First Nation-led charity has a big shiny fundraising goal on its wish list.

Endorsed by 9 Coast Salish Nations, the Kw’umut Lelum Foundation in Nanaimo is the first Indigenous owned and led community foundation in BC. This holiday season, they aim to raise $20,000. These funds will support local youth sport, education, language revitalization, and cultural art and music.

“We hear from parents who tell us about how much their children love their after-school activities, but the costs are adding up and becoming unrealistic for them,” said Sharon Hobenshield, Executive Director Kw’umut Lelum Foundation. “That’s where we can help.”

She explained, “We can fill the gap and ensure kids can pursue their passions in a way that works for their family.”

Local First Nation communities deciding the best way to support First Nation children and their families is what drives Kw’umut Lelum Foundation. In the spirit of self-determination, the foundation works to ensure First Nation control over investing in Indigenous youth.

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The Foundation is a charitable organization registered with the CRA and one of a growing network of Indigenous-owned charities in Canada. The grants and scholarships they’ve developed for local youth come in part through the support they receive from private and public donors.

Nanaimo small business owner, Tara Campbell of Plantara, shared how she feels about being a Kw’umut Lelum Foundation donor. “The KL Foundation is providing tangible, grassroots support to local families and honouring the Truth and Reconciliation process. I’m grateful to have been able to support them and encourage others to do the same.”

A common thread among the donors is the belief in the limitless potential of Indigenous children and youth. There is a commitment to expand access to cultural, economic, social, educational and recreational opportunities.

Jennifer Brennan, head Canada Programs, Mastercard Foundation, explained “We are proud to be an early partner of Kw’umut Lelum Foundation. We are united in our beliefs that every person has the potential to transform their lives and to improve the lives of their families and their communities.”

She continued, “First Nations-led philanthropic organizations know best the initiatives that are needed for maximum impact and positive change and can play an important role in self-determination.”

So, back to that holiday fundraising goal…

The Kw’umut Lelum Foundation is enthusiastic about what support from individuals can accomplish. They provided a look at how they can put your generosity to work right here in the Nanaimo/Parksville/Qualicum Beach area:

How your support can make a difference

$25 | Supports a month of soccer for a child.

$75 | Supports a month of hockey for a child.

$100 | Supports a beading and arts course for a child.

$1000 | Supports cultural drum making for young musicians for years to come.

To learn more about Kw’umut Lelum Foundation and see the impact your donation can have, click through to the Big Shiny Goal.