Give 25: The Future Flows From Here
The Future Flows From Here: Making Spaces for Native Stories to Grow
At Confluence, education is an act of connection. For more than two decades, Confluence has worked to amplify voices and stories along the Columbia River system—connecting people to the history, living cultures, and ecological knowledge of the region.
In the year ahead, Confluence’s revitalized youth programming will bring Native students together with artists, Elders, and educators to learn from the land, share stories, and build cultural pride. From river ecology to storytelling and leadership, these experiences help young people see the land not just as a place on a map—but as a living teacher.
Your gift makes this work possible. Give HERE.
What your Gift Supports
When you give to Confluence, you make it possible for Native youth to participate in programs that are culturally grounded, community-driven, and rooted in relationship to place.
Cultural exchange and storytelling
Youth learn traditional stories, songs, and practices from Native Elders and community members—strengthening identity, language, and intergenerational connection.
Environmental stewardship and river ecology
Hands-on activities and field trips engage youth in exploring the Columbia River’s health, traditional ecological knowledge, and sustainable practices. Students participate in citizen science and restoration projects while deepening their understanding of the land’s history and ongoing changes.
Art and expression workshops
Through traditional arts, mural painting, carving, poetry, and digital media, students explore themes of identity, place, and environmental justice. These creative outlets nurture belonging, self-expression, and cultural resilience.
Leadership development
Mentorship and workshops help youth cultivate confidence, critical thinking, and community engagement. Participants are encouraged to become advocates for their cultures, communities, and the environment.
Together, we can ensure Native youth have the tools, support, and inspiration to carry their cultures forward.
Support our programming by giving HERE
Our goal: $23,000 for 23 years of Confluence
As we grow into our 23rd year of amplifying Native voices, our goal is to raise $23,000 to jumpstart 2026 programming. Your contribution—of any size—helps us nurture a future where education is not only about learning, but about connection, care, and cultural resilience.
Featured artist: Toma Villa (Yakama Nation)
Throughout this appeal, we’re honored to feature the work of artist and educator Toma Villa, whose teaching blends mural painting, carving, and storytelling with cultural reflection.
Toma’s workshops are an essential part of Confluence’s youth programming—offering space for creative expression, cultural pride, and healing through art. His work reminds us that education is not only about what we learn, but how we connect to who we are and where we come from.
The art included in this appeal was created by Toma Villa for Confluence’s Voices of the River Journal, Vol. 4, which will launch in January 2026.
Together, we can make space for Native stories to grow.
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