In the spirit of potlatch giving practiced by the Tribe for hundreds of years, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe provided more than $4.1 million to Washington nonprofits and other governments serving communities throughout the state last year.

The Muckleshoot Charity Fund assisted more than 200 Washington schools, churches and charities, allowing them to continue their valuable programs and services.

Like all governments, the Muckleshoot Tribe uses its revenues to fund infrastructure, housing, health, education and other services for its citizens. The Tribe also honors its cultural tradition of sharing with those in need.

“In 2009 we were able to support over 200 Washington schools, churches and charities, allowing them to continue their valuable programs and services,” said Virginia Cross, chairman of the Muckleshoot Tribal Council. “As our Tribe has become more economically independent, we have been able to expand our ability to help and support our neighbors throughout the state.”

In addition to the Tribe’s Charity Fund that supports education, healthcare, human services, disaster assistance, the environment, culture and arts and other programs, the Tribe’s Community Impact Funds are provided to other local governments for fire, police and other services as well as to agencies’ programs to mitigate potential impacts of the casino.

“We are proud to partner with charitable organizations and government agencies that provide such important services to the people of Washington,” Cross said. “We thank them for their important work and reaffirm our commitment to helping our neighbors and building communities.”

For information on the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, visit www.muckleshoot.nsn.us.