2-15-2009

Press Contact: Eric Jordan
Phone: 206.213.0348 ext. 105
Email: ejordan@unitedindians.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE UNTIL MARCH 1, 2009

Seattle, WA - United Indians Celebrates Partnership With Key Bank

In the first year of its partnership with Key Bank, United Indians has provided direct financial education and services to over 100 families in the Seattle Native community. Statistically, 19 percent of Seattle’s Native population lives in poverty, compared to 8 percent of the general population.

Thanks in large part to an initial $25,000 grant from Key Foundation (funded by KeyCorp), United Indians launched its highly popular financial literacy classes, as well as a series of seminars on topics including rental readiness and the dangers of predatory lenders. Additionally, volunteers from Key Bank offered free tax preparation services at Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center for dozens of low income community members.

As part of the organization’s Pathways to Prosperity Program, United Indians hopes that by improving knowledge of money matters, members of the Native community will be empowered to get the practical skills and training needed to survive and prosper in today’s economic climate.

According to Executive Director Marty Bluewater, "Support from Key Bank and Key Foundation truly help us connect to people in our community who need these services the most. This partnership sets a model example of how private companies and non-profit organizations can work together for the community."

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United Indians of All Tribes Foundation | Daybreak Star Center | 3801 W. Government Way | Seattle | WA | 98139