The Kuskokwim Corporation (TKC) remains deeply committed to supporting opportunities that preserve the values, knowledge, languages, and traditions of the people of the Middle Kuskokwim. Through our TKC ROOTS program, which stands for Raising Our Own Traditional Stewards, we are proud to once again sponsor cultural camps that bring together Shareholder youth, Elders, Knowledge Holders, Culture Bearers, and the land itself.
This year, TKC proudly supported Shareholder youth in attending both the Caunaq Cultural Camp in Kalskag and the Jacob Wise Memorial Spirit Camp in Napaimute. Both camps provide a space where youth can learn and practice traditional skills while building strong connections to their homelands and each other.
Caunaq Cultural Camp
Just 10 miles upriver from Kalskag, the Caunaq Cultural Camp welcomed 22 youth, ages 8–17, from both Upper and Lower Kalskag. The five-day camp, hosted by the Native Village of Kalskag, offered hands-on learning guided by Elders and community members. Camp activities included sewing, beading, moose hunting, cutting and processing moose meat, setting nets, cutting and smoking fish, and berry picking for fresh akutaq. Youth also participated in workshops led by AVCP Healthy Families and practiced archery skills with Bethel Fish and Wildlife staff. TKC assisted with funding the camp and sent a staff member to share knowledge as a Cultural Bearer.
Jacob Wise Memorial Spirit Camp
The Jacob Wise Memorial Spirit Camp, organized by the Native Village of Napaimute, took place upriver from Napaimute August 27-Sept. 4. The week-long camp was held for Middle Kuskokwim and TKC Shareholder youth ages 10-17 and the theme was moose camp. Those who attended learned Yuuyaraq, our way of life. Campers practiced subsistence fishing and hunting and learned traditional survival skills. They were also taught the traditional crafts of sewing fur and leather as well as beading. Other camp activities included yuraqing (yup’ik dancing and drumming) and playing Native Youth Olympics (NYO) games. At TKC, we recognize the importance of staying connected to our culture, traditions, and land. This year, our ROOTS program sponsored 10 out-of-region Shareholders to attend Spirit Camp.
We are deeply appreciative to our Tribal partners for welcoming this collaboration and for allowing TKC to support these programs for our youth. We also extend thanks to the camp coordinators, helpers, Knowledge Holders, Culture Bearers, and Elders whose guidance and participation makes these experiences possible. We look forward to future opportunities to support our Shareholder youth. Together, we are helping the next generation strengthen their connection to our shared heritage.
If you’re interested in hosting a cultural learning opportunity through our TKC ROOTS program, please contact us at info@kuskokwim.com. TKC also offers a youth development scholarship to help our younger Shareholders access opportunities to further their growth and development. Learn more and apply here!
