Eastern Shawnee Tribe Seeks Native Youth Leaders for New Youth Advisory Board

Eastern Shawnee Tribe Seeks Native Youth Leaders for New Youth Advisory Board

Program offers young Native Americans opportunities to develop leadership skills, strengthen community connections, and help shape youth activities.

By Miami News-Digest | Community News

OTTAWA COUNTY, Okla. — The Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma is inviting Native American teenagers to become more involved in their communities through its Youth Advisory Board, an initiative designed to give young people a meaningful voice in developing programs that promote wellness, cultural connections, and leadership.

Operating under the tribe's Prevention Pathways program, the Youth Advisory Board seeks participants between the ages of 12 and 18 who are interested in sharing ideas, organizing activities, and helping shape initiatives that address the interests and needs of Native youth.

The program emphasizes a straightforward message: "Your Voice. Your Community. Your Future."

Giving Young People a Voice

Rather than simply participating in activities developed by adults, Youth Advisory Board members will have opportunities to contribute directly to the planning and development of community programming.

Participants will help design youth events and activities, suggest ways to strengthen cultural connections and community wellness, and advocate for greater youth involvement in tribal programs.

The experience is also intended to help teenagers develop valuable leadership and communication skills while working alongside their peers.

Such opportunities can provide young people with practical experience in collaboration, public participation, and community service, potentially preparing them for future roles in tribal government, education, and civic leadership.

Who Can Participate?

The Youth Advisory Board welcomes Native American youth ages 12 through 18 from federally recognized tribes, with priority given to Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma members.

Participants must reside within the tribal service area to attend meetings.

The program also offers incentives for young people who join and actively participate in board meetings.

Additionally, participants may qualify for community service or leadership hours, provided those hours are approved by their school or applicable program.

Supporting Wellness and Cultural Connections

The initiative is funded through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) Native Connections grant.

Native Connections initiatives emphasize the importance of cultural identity, community engagement, and supportive relationships in promoting the well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native youth.

Through the Youth Advisory Board, the Eastern Shawnee Tribe aims to incorporate young people's perspectives into activities that encourage positive connections, strengthen community involvement, and promote wellness.

The program also recognizes that youth themselves can offer valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing their generation.

How to Get Involved

Families and interested young people can contact Jennifer Pooler for additional information about joining the Youth Advisory Board, meeting participation, and program requirements.

Contact: Jennifer Pooler

Phone: (918) 238-5151, extension 1808

Email: jennifer.pooler@estoo.net

No application deadline or meeting schedule was specified in the recruitment announcement. Interested families are encouraged to contact the program directly for additional details.

For Native youth interested in making a difference, the board offers an opportunity to transform their ideas into meaningful community involvement.

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