If you’ve spent any time near the Spokane River—hiking its trails, paddling its waters, or simply admiring its flow from a park bench—you know how much this river means to our community. It’s more than a scenic landmark. It’s a source of identity, a place of learning, and a vital artery of life for the Inland Northwest.
That’s why the Spokane Riverkeeper exists: to protect, preserve, and restore the Spokane River. We do this by upholding the Clean Water Act, shaping water policy and standards, using science, monitoring, and other means to hold polluters accountable, and—perhaps most importantly—bringing our community into the heart of this mission.
Community-Rooted Stewardship
From river cleanups to school programs and events like the Earth Day Litter Pickup or our annual Spoken River auction, we’re always looking for new ways to invite people to be part of protecting the river. Our river-based curriculum with the Spokane Salish School is a perfect example of this vision in action.
Since 2020, our Waterkeeper, Jule Schultz, has worked closely with the Spokane Salish School, guiding students through hands-on, river-based science education. These students take what they’ve learned in the classroom and apply it directly in the field—studying river flow, identifying macroinvertebrates, and learning how nutrients like phosphorus can fuel harmful algae blooms. It’s science that sticks, and it all happens on the banks of the river we’re working to protect.
Enter Numerica Credit Union
None of this work happens alone. For years, Numerica Credit Union has been a steadfast supporter of Spokane Riverkeeper—not just financially, but through the heart and dedication of its people.
From sponsoring the Wild & Scenic Film Festival to showing up at cleanups and fundraisers, Numerica’s employees bring energy, professionalism, and genuine joy to our events. They roll up their sleeves, pitch in, and remind us what community-driven impact really looks like.
“The river is a central part of our community. It has a way of bringing people together—whether it's for adventure, peace, laughter, or connection. For me, it’s a place of solace, and protecting it feels deeply personal. That’s why I’m grateful to work for an organization that supports and helps preserve our magical river for future generations,” said Kendra, a longtime Numerica employee and engaged volunteer.
Through the Numerica CARES for Kids program, they recently awarded $2,500 to support our partnership with the Spokane Salish School. We were floored. This generous gift supports not just environmental education, but also a future where students are empowered to lead, protect, and thrive in their communities.
Shared Vision, Real Impact
Numerica’s vision—a community where no child lives in poverty—deeply aligns with our own goals for environmental equity and education. When we empower kids with knowledge and connection to their environment, we’re building a future where our river and our communities can flourish together.
So, why do we love partnering with Numerica?
Because they show up. They invest in people. They believe in lasting change. And just like us, they believe in the power of a healthy, thriving Spokane River.