OUR MISSION
The Mission of the ETMC is to preserve and to protect our cultural heritage and ancestral sacred sites, namely of the Esselen, Rumsen, Chalone, Sureño, Chunchunes and Guatcharrone people, which includes but is not limited to the villages of Achasta, Chalon, Echilat, Ensen, Excelen, Esslenajan, Ixchenta, Jojopan, Kuchun, Pachepas, Sargenta-Ruc, Soccoronda, & Tucutnut, located within sacred pre-historic and historic tribal lands of Monterey County, California.
Who We Are
The Esselen Tribe of Monterey County (a 501(c)(3)) preserves sacred sites, restores forests and rivers and expands cultural education across ancestral homelands. Recent milestones include land back at Eagle Peak - 1,109 acres, Pico Blanco/Little Sure - 327 acres, and along Tularcitos Creek - 1,720 acres. This also includes co-stewardship MOU across 18 state parks in the Monterey district. Your donation powers restoration crews, cultural fire, youth programs, food sovereignty and community healing.
Funds Raised will Support
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Community Education to share Esselen history, language, and cultural traditions
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Land & Resource to care for, maintain and protect our sacred lands for future generations
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Operations & Administration to sustain the Tribe's ongoing work and community presence
Monterey County Gives Campaign
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We are excited to announce our participation in the 2025 Monterey County Gives Campaign, with a fundraising goal of $75,000. Your contributions will play a vital role in helping us preserve our traditions, educate the community, and provide the necessary support to achieve our mission. Together, we can make a meaningful impact!
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