Native American Non-Profit Organizations in Oregon

Founded in 2000 by dedicated Native leaders and tribal members, the Native Wellness Institute represents a grassroots commitment to healing and empowerment within Native communities across North America. Operating from Gresham, Oregon, this 501(c)3 non-profit emerged from the Native wellness movement of the 1980s and 1990s, when communities recognized the need for culturally-specific support to address historical trauma and its ongoing impacts on families and tribes. The organization exists to help Native people understand where negative behaviors originate, create pathways for genuine healing, and move forward with purpose and dignity. At its core, the Native Wellness Institute embodies the Warriors Spirit—a commitment to honoring ancestors by living as positively, productively, and proactively as possible each day. The Institute draws from the profound wisdom of Native traditions: prayer, faith, songs, dances, ceremony, and language, recognizing these as essential tools for resilience and legacy-building. Founded during a transformative era when sobriety movements and cultural revitalization swept through tribal nations, the Native Wellness Institute continues this vital work by connecting people to their roots while addressing contemporary challenges including substance abuse, violence, and community trauma. Their approach respects the inherent strength within Native peoples and communities, providing not just training but a movement toward collective healing and self-determination that impacts individuals, families, workplaces, and entire communities.

Founded in 1993 by the late Martin High Bear, a Lakota medicine man and spiritual leader, and Rose High Bear, an Alaskan Athabascan and Inupiat elder, Wisdom of the Elders, Inc. has grown into a vital Portland, Oregon institution committed to honoring and preserving Native American wisdom. The organization's mission centers on recording, preserving, and sharing the voices, knowledge, and cultural practices of Native American elders, storytellers, and scientists in meaningful collaboration with community partners and institutions. At its core, Wisdom of the Elders serves as a bridge between generations and cultures, driven by a vision of Native American cultural sustainability, multimedia education, and cultural reconciliation. The organization's work extends far beyond archival preservation—it actively engages Native youth and adults through paid internship opportunities, workforce development, and educational initiatives that celebrate Indigenous knowledge systems. Over two decades, Wisdom has recorded the stories and teachings of over 400 Native elders and cultural leaders, creating a living archive that strengthens community identity and resilience. The organization's commitment to healing from historical trauma is evident in its comprehensive wellness curricula and community gatherings that bring together storytellers, educators, and families. Based in Portland, Wisdom of the Elders represents a deep investment in Indigenous futures, recognizing that the wisdom of Native American elders is not merely historical documentation but essential guidance for contemporary environmental stewardship, health, and cultural continuity.

Founded in 1953 by visionary tribal leaders, the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians represents a historic commitment to tribal sovereignty and self-determination across the Pacific Northwest. Based in Portland, Oregon, ATNI serves as a collaborative platform for 57 tribal governments who have chosen to unite their voices and strengthen their collective influence in the region. What sets ATNI apart is its deep-rooted foundation in the communities it serves—the organization was built by and for the tribal nations it represents, ensuring authentic representation and accountability to member tribes. Operating as a nonpro fit corporation chartered under Oregon law, ATNI maintains transparent governance structures where authority flows directly from member tribes through the Executive Council and down to operational committees. The organization's constitution, bylaws, and comprehensive policies reflect decades of collaborative experience and tribal wisdom. ATNI's two Northwest locations provide accessible services and support to member tribal governments throughout Oregon, Idaho, Washington, southeast Alaska, Northern California, and Western Montana. For tribal nations seeking coordinated advocacy, policy support, and collaborative partnership in addressing regional challenges, ATNI offers a proven model of indigenous-led governance and tribal unity.