On December 1, 2024, the Comanche Nation IAMNDN Youth Council participated in the annual Comanche Nation Elders Day, held at the Great Plains Coliseum in Lawton, Oklahoma. With an attendance of over 450 elders and community members, this special event was a heartfelt celebration of gratitude and respect for the wisdom and legacy of Comanche elders.
IAMNDN youth played an active role in the day’s activities by helping serve lunch to attendees, demonstrating their commitment to service and community care. In the spirit of the season, the youth spent weeks preparing for a special performance of Christmas carols sung in the Comanche language—a meaningful effort to blend tradition, language preservation, and holiday cheer.
The performance was well-received by the community, and as a gesture of appreciation, the IAMNDN youth were surprised with Chick-fil-A gift cards from the Comanche Nation Tribal Administrator.
This event highlighted the importance of Social Wellness, showcasing how honoring elders, giving back, and sharing culture can strengthen the bonds within a community. IAMNDN’s participation reflected the values of respect, service, and cultural pride that continue to guide their work with the Comanche Nation.