Vance Home Gun

Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes

Age: 23

Arlee, MT

When he was just 11 years old, Vance’s aunt introduced him to a Salish language camp that would inspire him to become a fluent speaker and get other young people involved. Over the years, Vance worked with tribal departments, organizations and youth groups to help preserve the Salish language. He taught language classes at high schools and created an organization called Yoyoot Skwkwimlt (Strong Young People) that utilizes peer-to-peer methods to teach language and culture.

Now, Vance is a graduate of Rhema Bible College, Rhema School of Student Leadership. Vance is currently working at Nkwsum Salish Language school, teaching K-8th Salish reading and writing classes. He served a 1 year term on the United National Indian Tribal Youth (UNITY), Inc.’s Executive Committee from 2016-2017, where his job was to connect Native American youth within Montana and Wyoming to resources and opportunities. Vance’s overall passion and commitment is to preserve the Salish language, culture, and history of his people.