Kw'umut Lelum Foundation

Kw’umut Lelum Foundation is led and stewarded by nine Coast Salish Nations: Halalt, Lyackson, Málexeł, Penelakut, Qualicum, Snaw-naw-as, Snuneymuxw, Stz'uminus and Ts’uubaa-asatx (Lake Cowichan). We collaborate with donors to expand cultural, economic, social, educational and recreational access in support of Indigenous children and their families in our member Nations. We are the first Indigenous owned and led community foundation in British Columbia, and one of a growing network of Indigenous-owned charities in Canada. While we acknowledge the colonial and systemic barriers Indigenous peoples and communities face, we work from a strengths-based approach as we recognize the abundance we have in culture, community, knowledge, innovation, and self-determination.
We have developed a uniquely Coast Salish approach to Indigenous philanthropy that has been informed through conversations with youth and communities. We are guided by snuw’uy’ulh - the cultural values and teachings from our loved ones and Elders - which are integral to our practice and goal of co-creating thriving communities. We have co-developed pathways with and for Indigenous youth that will support them holistically as they strengthen their cultural identity, wellness, knowledge, confidence, and skills. Our long-term goal is that Indigenous youth are fulfilled in their education, work, wellness and family life, and make positive contributions to their communities and all their relations.
We welcome partners and donors who honour our self-determination and value the 6 Rs of Indigenous philanthropy and engagement: Relationships, Respect, Responsibility, Reciprocity, Relevance, and Redistribution.