The Cowlitz Indian Tribe, based in Washington State, celebrated 2022’s grant recipients at its second annual ilani Resort Event. The Tribe welcomed grant recipients from across the state to honor its year of accomplishments and celebrate its philanthropic partners.
The event, held earlier this week, was attended by more than 400 community members and celebrated the work undertaken by the Cowlitz Tribal Foundation’s 110 non-profit grantees. They were awarded funding by the state to address community concerns such as food access, veterans resources, workforce development, healthcare, housing and natural resources.
Some highlighted recipients included The Pink Lemonade Project, a Vancouver-based NPO that educates and supports all communities affected by breast cancer. Also present was The Market at Bonney Lake Food Bank, an organization that provides equitable access to nutritious food for residents of East Pierce County, WA.
Cowlitz Indian Tribe General Council Chairwoman Patty Kinswa-Gaiser commented: “Having this opportunity to spend time with our grant recipients and reflect on their 2022 accomplishments is simply amazing. We hold this group in the highest regard and thank them for reinforcing the values that are dear to the Cowlitz people.
“We lift up those around us, we care for the land that nourishes us, and we share in the joy of community. Our hope is that people walk away from this annual dinner not only feeling appreciated but also renewed for the year to come.”
The event’s dinner focused on the theme of ‘Community, Impact, and Resilience.’ The Foundation outlined its philanthropy throughout Washington State and highlighted specific community partners who were best able to leverage their grants to deliver results to their constituents.
Cowlitz Tribal Foundation Manager Timi Marie Russin commented: “We look forward to another year of making a positive impact in our region and communities throughout Washington, and sincerely thank all of those that help make our philanthropic work possible.”