The Missoula Native Youth Council (NYC) brought energy, education, and cultural leadership to the annual Halloween event at Russell Elementary School, reaching over 200 community members. While the event was packed with festive fun, the Council used the opportunity to spotlight a serious message as part of Red Ribbon Week: the dangers of commercial tobacco use.
In alignment with their focus on social wellness, the Missoula Native Youth Council hosted an interactive booth that combined health education with engaging games for Native youth and families. Council members shared information about the harmful effects of commercial tobacco, while also emphasizing the importance of traditional tobacco use in cultural practices—a distinction that is often overlooked in mainstream prevention efforts.
Their presence helped make the event both informative and culturally grounded. Youth attendees had the chance to learn from peers in a fun, supportive environment, reinforcing positive choices while enjoying the spirit of Halloween.
Through this initiative, the Missoula Native Youth Council once again demonstrated how Native youth leadership can bring culturally relevant health messaging to the forefront—empowering their community and inspiring younger generations to live healthier, stronger lives.