Service is more than an action for the Mvskoke Nation Youth Council—it is a reflection of identity, purpose, and unity. This past year, MNYC members have made service a central tenet of their mission, finding meaningful ways to uplift their communities and live out the values handed down by their elders.
Since July 2024, council members have contributed over 466 combined volunteer hours, with each member committing to a minimum of 20 hours every quarter. These hours are fulfilled through a combination of Mvskoke Nation Youth Services events and personal service projects in their respective communities, reinforcing that service isn’t just something you do—it’s a way of life.
From distributing information at community events to offering a helping hand at tribal functions, MNYC members show up consistently. At the 2024 Mvskoke Youth Council Gathering, they hosted an interactive resource booth to promote civic engagement. Attendees could learn about the MNYC’s work, register to vote, connect with youth support programs, and engage in a friendly game of Hvmken (Uno). These small but intentional moments created spaces for dialogue, laughter, and deeper connections with community members.
One of the most impactful initiatives this year was MNYC’s work with Muscogee (Creek) elders. In December 2024, members volunteered at the Elderly Nutrition Center, serving lunch, refilling drinks, and offering respectful conversation. In February, they crafted and delivered over 350 handmade Valentine’s cards to elders across the nation, personally delivering cards and meals at the Elders’ Sweetheart Dance.
These acts of service demonstrate a commitment to intergenerational connection and respect, core values of the Mvskoke people. MNYC continues to seek new ways to support the community—including the upcoming Senior Games, where members will assist in logistics and wellness promotion, and the Elders’ Gathering, where they’ll facilitate cultural activities and ensure elders feel honored and heard.
Community service through MNYC isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a bridge between generations, a way to demonstrate leadership, and a reflection of the Mvskoke spirit of community. With every hour served, these young leaders are shaping a future rooted in empathy, action, and unity.