Intertribal Friendship House facts for kids

The Intertribal Friendship House (IFH) in Oakland is one of the oldest Native American community centers in the United States. It was started in 1955 by local people. IFH helps Native Americans living in cities. It is similar to the American Indian Center in Chicago.

What is the Intertribal Friendship House?

IFH is a special place for Native American people. It helps them connect with their culture. It also helps them find support in city life. The main goal of IFH is to help Native people stay healthy and well. They do this by using both old traditions and new ideas.

A Place for Community and Culture

Since 1955, IFH has offered many helpful programs. They have educational activities for all ages. There are special programs for elders and young people. IFH also hosts holiday meals and offers advice for social services. It is a place where community meetings happen. Families can also use the space for events like celebrations or memorials.

Why Was IFH Needed?

In the 1950s, the United States government had a plan. The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) encouraged Native Americans to move to cities. This was part of the Indian Relocation Act of 1956. Moving to a new city could be hard. People often needed help finding jobs, housing, and friends. Organizations like IFH were created to help Native people adjust. They also helped them keep their traditions strong.

Friends and Partners

The Intertribal Friendship House works with many other groups. These groups also help Native American communities. Many of them are in the San Francisco Bay Area. Some of these partners include:

• Native American Health Center
• American Indian Child Resource Center
• United Indian Nations
• Indigenous Nations Child and Family Agency
• San Francisco Indian Center
• Friendship House Association of American Indians
• California Indian Legal Services
• American Indian Film Institute
• American Indian AIDS Institute of San Francisco