About SPIPA
In 1976, these Tribal leaders from the South Puget Sound region had the remarkable vision to join together to create SPIPA(South Puget Intertribal Planning Agency) The original mission of SPIPA, as set forth by the founders: Mel Youckton (Chehalis), Zelma McCloud (Nisqually), Bill Smith (Skokomish), and Cal Peters (Squaxin Island, 1927-2011) was to “study, prepare, and recommend comprehensive Tribal plans; to aid in providing financial and technical assistance to participating Tribal communities; and to otherwise assist in such planning and development as may seem appropriate to promote the general welfare of participating Tribes.”
In 1992, the consortium welcomed the Shoalwater Bay Tribe as a SPIPA member. This unique model now provides intertribal planning, technical assistance and program management services to support each Tribe’s goal for their members.
SPIPA Board of Directors
Each Board member is appointed by their Tribal Council and given the duty of keeping their Council informed about SPIPA activities and intertribal project opportunities.
Leadership Bios
Kyle Rogers, Interim Executive Director
Kyle Rogers is a member of the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe. He is a graduate of Eastern Washington University where he earned Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. He served as his Tribe’s Alternate Delegate on the SPIPA Board of Directors before comming to work at SPIPA as a Planner/Senior Grant Writer in 2014. He is currently serving as SPIPA’s Deputy Executive Director.
A huge sports fan, Kyle enjoys getting to local games for the Mariners and the Seahawks. His family lives in South Bend, WA where he was raised. When he’s not working, his favorite vacation spot is Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.