Beacon of Progress The Cherokee Preservation Foundation receives at least $5 million annually in gaming profits from Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort. Since 1997, the casino’s revenue has funded countless initiatives in education, health care, and public and safety services on the Qualla Boundary.
Tradition
Living History Visitors to Cherokee learn about the tribe’s heritage at the Oconaluftee Indian Village (top) and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian (above). The foundation has made major investments in these and other cultural centers.
Speaking Up The Kituwah Preservation & Education Program has helped adults and children learn their native tongue and developed a degree program for future language teachers.
In 2000, only a few tribe members knew the art of double-weave basket making. That’s changed, thanks to classes funded by the Cherokee Preservation Foundation, now led by Director Annette Clapsaddle
“If you ever had to bust up all that cane, you’d know that was actually a million-dollar basket.” _Basket maker Mary Thompson
looking back At the Oconaluftee Indian Village, tribe member Robert Wolfe helps interpret Cherokee history. The cultural attraction thrives thanks to support from the Cherokee Preservation Foundation.