FAQ

We are here to help! Here are answers to some commonly asked questions. If you need further assistance or your question is not answered below, please contact Conference Coordinator, Stella Spivey at stella@healingofthecanoe.org

Event Overview

  • When: March 23 – 26, 2026
  • Registration opens: December 1, 2025
  • Deadline to Register: March 6, 2026
  • Where: Clearwater Casino Resort, Suquamish, WA

Who Should Attend

  • Tribal leaders, educators, and program staff working with Native youth

  • Indigenous community members interested in creating or adapting culturally rooted curricula

  • Behavioral health and prevention professionals seeking Indigenous-centered approaches

  • Facilitators, cultural teachers, and youth mentors committed to culture-based education and healing

What to Expect

  • A hands-on, 4-day training focused on curriculum adaptation, facilitation, and engagement strategies
  • Sessions tailored to your community’s needs, including group work with your team
  • Come prepared with:
  • Ideas for cultural elements to include
  • Possible speakers, leaders, or elders to involve
  • A collaborative mindset

What is Cultural Sharing?

Culture is at the heart of every curriculum—and every community. During the conference, we’ll hold a Cultural Sharing gathering, where each participating organization is invited to share a meaningful aspect of their own culture with the group.

  • This could be:

  • A song, dance, or story from your community

  • A traditional or contemporary craft, video, or game

  • Teachings or practices that represent your people and your ways of knowing

There’s no right or wrong way to participate—share what feels meaningful to you. The time you take is up to you, and your hosts, the Suquamish Tribe, will also share something from their culture. This is a powerful opportunity to connect, celebrate, and honor the diverse cultural strengths we each carry—and it’s always one of the most memorable parts of the week.

Pricing

  • Early Bird: $1,600 (Dec 1, 2025 – Jan 12, 2026)
  • Standard: $2,100 (Jan 13 – March 6, 2026) 

What is Included with Registration?

  • 4 full days of interactive training
  • Breakfast and lunch each day
  • Printed materials and curriculum resources
  • Pricing is listed on the registration page

Travel Information

  • Transportation is not provided.
  • We recommend renting a car for convenience and exploration.
  • From Seattle, take the Washington State Ferry to Bainbridge Island →Ferry Info
  • Suquamish is a short 15-minute drive from the ferry terminal.

Meals

  • Included: Breakfast and lunch during all conference days
  • Not included: Dinner (you’re free to explore local dining options)

What To Bring

  • Your in-progress curriculum
  • Laptop (YES, you will need your laptop)
  • Cultural sharing item or activity
  • List of potential speakers or cultural contributors
  • Casual, weather-appropriate clothing, swimsuit and resort attire

Nearby Stores & Dining

  • Poulsbo & Bainbridge Island: Wide selection of restaurants
  • Grocery & Essentials:
  • Poulsbo: Safeway, Town & Country, Walmart, CVS
  • Bainbridge: Safeway, Town & Country
  • DoorDash available at the resort for added convenience