Change is a part of life. With change comes new opportunities. As you may have heard, the Youth Program is now a part of the Puow’wan Program. We will now be focusing on youth/students in grades K-12 and overseeing the Johnson O’Malley (JOM) Program, but our goal remains the same: to uplift and support our Native youth. By being a part of the Puow’wan Program, we can collaborate with other departments to include events involving families and the community through culture, education, and well-being.
SMART Goals & Community Growth
In our Jan. 10 Every Friday post, we discussed SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals, and we want to check in on your progress. To support you and your youth, we’re incorporating them into the Youth Calendar on the Youth Program webpage. Here are some ways you can work toward your goals while strengthening your connection to your culture, family, and community:
Mindful Mondays – Language & Connection
Tip #1: If your goal is to learn and speak your language, challenge yourself to use five new words in a conversation this week. You can also reach out to an elder or fluent speaker in your community for guidance.
Reading & Storytelling (Tuesdays)
Tip #2: Read for at least 20 minutes a day. Reading to an elder or younger family member can be a great way to bond while learning. Reach out to us for suggestions of books written by indigenous authors.
Wellness, Movement & Health (Wednesdays & Thursdays)
Tip #3: Stay active for at least 30 minutes! Whether it’s powwow dancing, playing a sport, or simply walking outside, movement is medicine. Let’s take care of our bodies together!
Compliment Fridays – Building Community
Tip #4: Strengthening our community starts with kindness. Give a compliment to a friend, family member, or someone in your community. A simple kind word can uplift someone’s spirit and build a stronger, more connected circle.
Stay Connected
We’re here for you! If you have any questions, need support, or want to share your goals, please reach out. Let’s embrace this transition together and continue strengthening our Native youth and families through culture, education, and connection.