The Native American Thriving Initiatives Fund

In order for institutions to enact truly transformational change, history must not only be acknowledged, but addressed; and the future must not only be visioned — but intentionally cultivated. The Native American Thriving Initiatives (NATI) Fund supports restorative action, increased visibility and voice in the institution, placed-based educational efforts, and relationships that center on issues and projects impacting Native Nations and communities; and community development efforts that create opportunities for our students, faculty, and staff to thrive.

Your contribution helps to support:

• Student services operated by NASD including:

• Leadership and professional development

• Wellness initiatives

• Holistic student support and advising

• Mentorship

• Research opportunities, curriculum development, and symposia centering Native issues such as the UC Land Grab symposia at UC Berkeley and UC Davis, organized by the Myers Center for Research on Native American Issues

• Engagement and support of programs bridging the institution and Native issues such as Breath of Life Archival Institute for Indigenous California Languages (operated by Native American Studies faculty and NASD)

• Place-based educational programs like the Native Walking Tour, and ‘ullashtak (the garden place - a partnership with the ‘ottoy Initiative) that seek to expand conceptions of Berkeley to include Native perspectives, values, history, and people.

The NATI Fund is coordinated by the Director of Native American Organizational Transformation in partnership with the Native American Student Development Office and Division of Equity & Inclusion.