National Urban Indian Family Coalition
About National Urban Indian Family Coalition
Founded in 2003 following a forum hosted by United Indians of All Tribes Foundation, the National Urban Indian Family Coalition (NUIFC) in Lynnwood, Washington emerged from a genuine commitment to address the needs of American Indian families living in urban settings. With funding from the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the organization was established as an access point for dialogue and collaboration within urban Indian America, dedicated to ensuring that traditionally excluded organizations and families would have a voice in national conversations.
Today, the NUIFC represents a thriving network of more than 40 community-based nonprofit organizations across 23 states, each with deep roots in their respective urban Indian communities. The coalition's mission centers on elevating a national voice for American Indians and Alaska Natives living in urban communities while sustaining Indigenous values and culture through relationship-based partnership. Executive Director Janeen Comenote and the NUIFC leadership work collaboratively with member organizations to blend local expertise with national dialogue, recognizing that local organizations are experts in navigating community politics, policy, and resource distribution.
Guided by values of accountability, relationship, and shared responsibility, the NUIFC creates a shared understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within urban Native communities. The organization believes that the future success and prosperity of urban Indian communities relies upon a unified voice and collective commitment to advocacy. Through collective action, civic engagement, educational programming, and community support initiatives, the NUIFC demonstrates its dedication to remaining a trusted partner and access point for urban Indian organizations and the families they serve.