Gather, Share, Give: Hosting a Summer Fundraising Dinner for Kw’umut Lelum Foundation
Summer is a season of gathering. Across our Coast Salish communities, warm evenings bring opportunities to connect with family, friends, neighbours, and community members around good food and good conversation.
What if your next barbecue, potluck, or dinner party could also help uplift Indigenous youth and families?
Hosting a small fundraising gathering is one of the simplest and most meaningful ways to support the work of the Kw’umut Lelum Foundation. Whether it's a backyard barbecue, a seafood feast, a potluck picnic in the park, or a dinner on the deck, every gathering can help create opportunities for Indigenous youth and strengthen communities.
Keep It Simple
A fundraising dinner doesn't need to be complicated. Invite a group of friends, neighbours, coworkers, or family members. Share a meal together and let guests know that, in lieu of bringing a gift, they are invited to make a donation to the Kw’umut Lelum Foundation.
You might choose to:
Ask guests to contribute what they would normally spend on a meal out.
Hold a small raffle or door prize.
Invite everyone to bring a favourite dish and donate the cost savings.
Share a personal reason why supporting Indigenous youth and families matters to you.
Share the Story
One of the most powerful parts of any gathering is storytelling. Consider taking a few moments during the evening to share information about the Kw’umut Lelum Foundation and the impact donations make.
Your guests may be inspired to learn about:
Scholarships for Indigenous students pursuing their dreams.
Cultural and recreation programs that help children and youth stay connected to community.
Wellness initiatives that support Indigenous families.
Community-led projects that create lasting change across our nine Member Nations.
When people understand the impact of their giving, they often feel inspired to become part of the journey.
Make It Meaningful
Fundraising doesn't have to feel formal. The most successful gatherings are often those that focus on connection, laughter, and shared purpose.
Consider incorporating:
Local and traditional foods.
Indigenous music or artists.
A gratitude circle.
Opportunities for guests to learn about local Indigenous history and culture.
Every Gathering Matters
You don't need to host a large event to make a difference. A dinner table with six people, a barbecue with neighbours, or a family picnic can all help create positive change.
Together, small acts of generosity become something much bigger. By opening your home and sharing a meal, you are helping create opportunities for Indigenous youth, support families, and strengthen communities for generations to come.
If you are interested in hosting a fundraising gathering in support of the Kw’umut Lelum Foundation, we would love to hear from you and help you get started.
Huy tseep q’u for helping us create brighter futures, together.