For Victor Organista (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation), service isn’t just a duty — it’s a way of life. As a Program Assistant at the Boys and Girls Club (BGC) of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, Victor spent his summer investing in the next generation, from guiding elementary school field trips to creating spaces for community connection. “I love being able to connect with my community any way possible, and the Boys and Girls Club of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation allows me to do that.”
Throughout the summer, Victor worked with youth from kindergarten through 8th grade, ensuring that every activity was not only fun but meaningful. He accompanied a group of 4th graders to the local pool for a day of laughter and play, and partnered with First Tee – Greater Topeka to introduce Native youth to the sport of golf at the Firekeepers Golf Course. “We were able to work on putting and hitting by going to hole 18 and by doing a couple of exercises.”
Victor’s commitment to creating opportunities didn’t stop with field trips. Twice a week, he hosts open gym basketball games during community hours at the Boys and Girls Club. These evenings offer more than just basketball — they provide community members access to the facility’s weight room, pool, tennis courts, and playground. By making the BGC a hub for physical activity, friendship, and positive engagement, Victor is helping strengthen bonds within the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.
As a Southern Plains Regional Representative on the National UNITY Council Executive Committee, Victor’s leadership extends far beyond his local community. The Executive Committee serves to represent the UNITY Network so that common concerns are studied and addressed with a positive and unified voice.
In this role, Victor helps shape national priorities, facilitates collaboration between youth councils, and ensures the voices of Southern Plains Native youth are included in UNITY’s collective vision. By combining his grassroots community work with his national leadership responsibilities, Victor is living out UNITY’s mission to uplift, empower, and inspire Native youth across Indian Country.