Native Star Foundation

Native Star Foundation, Inc.

About Us.

The Native Star Foundation (NSF) was established in 2013 by Mr. Carrillo, an enrolled member of the Tule River Indian Tribe. Mr. Carrillo incorporated NSF in 2018 in the State of California as a domestic nonprofit corporation – 501(c)(3). Stewarded by a Board of Directors who are tribal representatives of the Chalon Tribe, Santa Ynez Chumash, and Tule River Indian Tribes, NSF’s mission is; "Generating healthy mindsets in Native youth and families utilizes traditional cultural practices in Environmental Health". Specifically, by nurturing their knowledge and understanding that health is inseparable from the health of the natural environment. A primary objective is supporting and preparing our young people to achieve success in our communities and business world.

The Native Star Foundation team has a long history of providing statewide educational, civic and rural leadership to improve the quality of life in our Indian communities. Our focus service area is the Central Valley of California – Fresno, Tulare, Kings and Kern Counties.  Native Star also participates in cultural Runs and exchanges across California, Nevada, Arizona and Hawaii.  

Native Star Foundation – Focus Areas

1. Youth Leadership & Empowerment

We invest in the next generation by providing mentorship, cultural programming, and leadership development opportunities that honor Native identity and prepare youth to thrive in both traditional and modern settings.

2. Education & Student Success

From K-12 support to higher education pathways, we work to close opportunity gaps through academic advising, internships, scholarships, dual enrollment, and Native-focused learning communities.

3. Cultural Preservation & Revitalization

We uplift tribal knowledge through language, arts, and traditional practices. Our programs support intergenerational learning, seasonal ceremonies, and storytelling that keep our cultures alive and strong.

4. Family & Community Wellness

We promote holistic wellness—mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual—by offering culturally rooted health resources, community events, and access to care that respects Indigenous ways of healing.

5. Tribal Partnerships & Capacity Building

We work alongside tribal governments, educators, and nonprofits to build stronger infrastructure, expand resources, and co-create programs that reflect the priorities of Native communities.

6. Environmental Stewardship

We honor the land as our first teacher. Through education, advocacy, and land-based learning, we engage youth and families in protecting our homelands for future generations.