About NAIC

Welcome to NAIC (Northwest American Indian Coalition, Inc.), a native-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation headquartered in Curry County.

Our organization is dedicated to restoring, preserving, and protecting the culture, heritage, and land of the Northwest American Indian people.

Mission Statement:
Our mission at NAIC is to unite Indigenous communities through collaborative initiatives, cultural revitalization, championing environmental stewardship, and addressing historical traumas. We are committed to honoring our ancestral heritage, fostering inter-tribal solidarity, and advocating for the well-being of present and future generations. Through education, research, and community engagement, we strive to strengthen Indigenous sovereignty, resilience, and self-determination.

Vision Statement:
At NAIC, we envision a future where Coast Dee-ni’ communities thrive in harmony with their ancestral homelands, cultures, and traditions. We aspire to be a catalyst for positive change, promoting environmental stewardship and cultural revitalization. By fostering inclusive partnerships and amplifying Indigenous voices, we aim to create a world where Indigenous knowledge is respected, valued, and celebrated for generations to come
.

Through collaborative partnerships with Dee-ni’ communities, local stakeholders, and supporting agencies, our aim is to cultivate a future where the culture, language, and lands of Northwest American Indian people thrive. We firmly believe in the power of unity and mutual respect, and we actively work towards building strong relationships based on trust and collaboration.

As a native-led nonprofit organization, NAIC operates with a deep sense of responsibility, guided by the values and wisdom passed down through generations. We believe that our work is not only about preserving the past but also about creating a better future for all tribal members, their descendants, and the broader community.

We welcome you to join us in our journey to restore, preserve, and protect the culture, heritage, and land of the Northwest American Indian people. Together, we can make a meaningful difference and ensure that the voices and contributions of indigenous communities are celebrated and respected for generations to come.

Thank you for your support and dedication to our shared vision.

Our all-native Board of Directors consists of a diverse representation of Tribal citizens with cultural ties to Curry County.

NAIC’s board honors its responsibility to the ones who have come before us and who will come after us.

EXECUTIVE BOARD

Katrina Thompson-Upton
Founder | Executive Board Chair

Hiiné Jacqueline DePoe 
Executive Board Vice Chair

Dorothy Wait
Executive Board Secretary

Nellie Gardner-Fox
Executive Board Treasurer

Dr. Jaeci Hall
Board of Directors

Earl Huitt
Board of Directors

ADVISORY BOARD

Rick Cook
Chair | Port Orford Historic Preservation Commission

Doug Barrett
Chief | Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians

Jeri Thompson
Chair | Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation

Tabatha Rood 
Founder | Azaa is Well

Dakotah Daily
Founder | TetonTopo

Shu’ shaa nin-la

The Northwest American Indian Coalition is deeply grateful for the generous support of our funders. Their contributions enable us to continue our mission to restoring, preserving, and protecting the culture, heritage, and land of the Northwest American Indian people. Below are some of the organizations that have partnered with us
to make a meaningful impact in our community.