Cherokee Nation Expands Support for Community Organizations

New Task Force Strengthens Community Investments

TAHLEQUAH – A new task force has been established to explore ways to enhance Cherokee Nation’s support for its 86 affiliated nonprofit organizations across the Reservation and the United States. This initiative seeks to maximize recent investments in community development and ensure long-term success for participating organizations.

Cherokee Nation’s Community and Cultural Outreach (CCO) department collaborates with 60 community organizations within the reservation and more than two dozen outside of it, providing grants and programs that promote cultural preservation and improve quality of life. These organizations play a vital role in their communities, operating 32 community buildings—some still under construction—that serve as cultural hubs and emergency shelters.

Expanding Resources for Community Growth

The Housing, Jobs, and Sustainable Communities Act (HJSCA), originally passed in 2019 and made permanent last year, has been instrumental in this effort. While primarily a housing initiative, HJSCA also provides millions of dollars annually to support community organizations with capital and operational funding. Additionally, significant investments through the American Rescue Plan Act under the tribe’s Respond, Recover, and Rebuild Plan have further strengthened these grassroots efforts.

The newly formed task force will examine challenges and opportunities in programming, facility use, fundraising, volunteerism, needs assessments, and construction. It aims to identify ways to enhance the impact of these organizations by working directly with local volunteers and leaders.

Key Grant Initiatives Supporting Communities

Cherokee Nation’s commitment to community support is evident through ongoing grant programs. Over the past five years, $35 million has been allocated for community building construction and renovations, with additional projects underway. Recent grant initiatives include:

• Community Impact Grants – A $1.6 million one-time initiative to support pandemic recovery efforts, such as food security and organizational development.

• Community Wellness Grants – Over $2 million in annual funding for increased access to physical and mental wellness activities and infrastructure improvements.

• Sustainable Community Grants – A program within HJSCA allocating $6 million over the next three years to fund community buildings, alongside $36 million dedicated to housing.

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The task force’s work will ensure these investments continue to strengthen Cherokee communities, fostering long-term growth and resilience.

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