In spring 2023, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Council passed a resolution supporting the launch of Friends of the Children — Flathead Nation, a site dedicated to serving youth on the Flathead Indian Reservation. This location, part of the Friends of the Children — Western Montana chapter, brings our proven professional mentoring model to Tribal youth.

“Wild rose bushes are a sacred symbol of transition and resilience to our Tribes, and they can also represent a youth’s 12+ year journey with Friends of the Children,” says Program Manager, Nicole Callahan. “When children first enroll, they are like tightly closed rose buds, from the many obstacles they’ve faced. After their first year in the program, many are already blooming beautifully with a stronger sense of identity, sparking meaningful relationships with elders, and connecting to their community.”

Friends — Flathead Nation is unique in serving youth from the Salish, Qlispe, and Ksanka Tribes—and welcomes all Tribal youth living on the reservation, which is home to 64 Tribal Nations. This inclusive approach honors the reservation’s rich diversity and interconnectedness of the Tribal communities. The chapter’s advisory committee, comprised of Tribal elders and community leaders, ensures that programming incorporates traditional practices, language, and cultural teachings that reinforce youth’s belonging and pride in their heritage.

The Flathead Nation location is committed to empowering youth through culturally grounded activities including naming ceremonies, storytelling, and learning their Indigenous language which connects back to generations of their heritage. In the summer, youth attend a cultural camp full of activities steeped in Tribal traditions. A favorite camp activity consists of children making their own hoops for the Salish Hoop and Dart game—a traditional Indigenous game that builds hand-eye coordination, accuracy, and hunting skills.

Friends of the Children’s approach honors the Indigenous value that “children are sacred” and emphasizes long-term, consistent relationships rooted in extended kinship. Professional mentors are called “Relatives,” reflecting the Indigenous tradition of extended family roles of aunts, uncles, and elders who nurture children’s growth.

One youth had just missed a visit with their biological aunt, and they asked their professional mentor: “If we’re from the same Tribe, can you be my Auntie too?” This bond, rooted in shared culture and kinship, gave the youth a sense of belonging and comfort during a challenging time.

Nicole Callahan speaks to creating cultural connection for youth: “If our kids are connected and rooted in their Tribes, their customs and beliefs, they’ll be unstoppable as adults.”