North American Institute for Living Latin Studies

The North American Institute for Living Latin Studies, commonly referred to by its Latin name Septentrionale Americanum Latinitatis Vivae Institutum (SALVI), is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting communicative approaches to Latin language acquisition. Established in October 1996, SALVI aims to make the Classical tradition of Western culture more accessible and enjoyable for students, teachers, and the general public.

Mission

SALVI's mission focuses on enhancing the learning experience of Latin by emphasizing active communication in the language. This approach is particularly emphasized during the initial stages of language study, where foundational grammar skills are developed. By fostering a living tradition of Latin, SALVI seeks to revitalize the role of Latin in modern education and cultural discourse.

Programs

A key component of SALVI's activities is the organization of Latin immersion programs, known as rusticationes. These are week-long experiences designed to immerse participants in spoken Latin, providing an immersive environment for language practice. These programs are typically held at the Claymont Estate in West Virginia and other selected venues.

Recognition

SALVI was recognized as a not-for-profit public benefit educational and literary corporation by the State of California in February 1997. It received federal tax-exempt status under section 501c(3) of the Internal Revenue Code in February 1998, allowing contributions to be tax-deductible.

Impact

SALVI's efforts contribute to the broader effort to keep Latin relevant in contemporary educational contexts, aligning with other organizations and initiatives that support Classical studies in North America. Its programs and activities have been influential in promoting active Latin among educators and enthusiasts alike.