About Salish Roots
What we do
We’re consultants for non-profits, small businesses, and other mission-based organizations. We exist to support you in starting and sustaining an organization that aligns with the values of equity, restoration, joy, inclusion, and dignity you stand for. In short, we help you with the behind the scenes work so you can focus on the transformational work you came here to do.
Where we work
Our roots are in Washington in the Pacific Northwest, home to the Salish Sea. We serve folks throughout the northwest (Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and Idaho) and across the nation.
Who we are
Salish Roots is led by Steve Walker (he/him), based in the Puget Sound and greater Seattle region. Over the past two decades, his focus has been on working to transform our education system, replace our system of incarceration with one of restoration, and contribute to a more connected, inclusive, sustainable world.
Prior to founding Salish Roots, he studied as a lawyer to understand and reshape the social and economic systems we live in. He brought that knowledge into the classroom as a high school teacher and went on to start a curriculum organization that supports tens of thousands of teachers across the nation. Along the way, he supported dozens of non-profits and small to mid-sized for-profits in scaling or restructuring to achieve their mission.
He is committed to combating and actively dismantling systems of oppression. You'll see this show up in his work in two ways. First, through helping his clients rewrite the policies and redesign the systems that shape their own organization, displacing the harmful systems that take us away from the values and relationships that make the work possible. Second, in recognizing that he comes in as an invited guest who can only succeed by centering the voices, values, and hopes of his clients and those they serve.
Working together
To all the changemakers, movement-builders, and others who bring light to our communities: Even at its most joyful and fulfilling, we know how hard and uncertain this work can be. We exist to give you the support you and your team need to sustain the work. We're excited to hear what you're up to and start the conversation.