National Indian Child Welfare Association

Join us in advancing culturally grounded and Native-led approaches that strengthen protections for Native children and families.

The National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) is a culturally based nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the safety, health, and cultural identity of all Native children and families—today and for future generations—by upholding culturally based services, community strength, and tribal sovereignty. We work at the tribal, local, state, and national levels to strengthen the interrelated and interdependent networks and systems that support Native children and families. 

With more than 40 years of experience, NICWA bridges the gap between child welfare policies and culturally responsive services, ensuring that Native advocates have a seat at the table and a role in actively shaping child welfare policies and practices that impact Native children and families across Indian Country. 

Our board of directors is 100% Native, as required by our bylaws, and represents 15 tribes, including a First Nation in Canada. 68% of our staff identify as a person of color, 58% of whom are Native. 80% of NICWA’s management team are Native women. 

Based in Portland, Oregon, we champion Native-led solutions that keep Native children safe, supported, and connected to their families and communities. We are working towards a future where every Native child can thrive where they live.

Our Mission

NICWA protects the safety, health, and cultural identity of all Native children and families—today and for future generations—by upholding culturally based services, community strength, and tribal sovereignty.

Our Vision

All Native children and their families are safe, healthy, and belong to strong communities that are culturally and spiritually abundant.

Learn more about our work by visiting: www.nicwa.org/our-work/