The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Youth Council (MNYC) exemplifies the mission of UNITY in fostering leadership, cultural pride, and community wellness. By addressing challenges and creating meaningful connections within their tribal nation, the MNYC serves as a shining example of how youth councils can drive positive change. Their efforts highlight the unique ways youth councils function as vital tools for problem-solving and community building.
Empowering Youth to Bridge Generations
A standout initiative by the MNYC is their “Bridging the Gap Between Youth & Elders” program. This partnership with the Muscogee Elders Program enables intergenerational learning, where youth teach elders basic technology skills, and elders share invaluable knowledge of the Mvskoke language and history. “Sitting with our elders and hearing their life advice has been a transformative experience. The friendships we’ve formed are priceless,” said Shaina Bender, a council leader.
The success of this initiative underscores the importance of youth councils in creating spaces for mutual respect and learning across generations.
Addressing Community Wellness
MNYC also tackles vital health and wellness issues. Their “MNYC Clean Up Challenge” mobilized youth to improve the environment within their tribal jurisdiction, blending physical wellness with community service. Meanwhile, their virtual “Mental Health Conversation—Youth Version” brought together Native youth from various tribes to discuss coping mechanisms and resilience. Felipe Rodriguez, a participant, shared, “These conversations remind us that as Native youth, our shared resilience binds us, even when our challenges differ.”
By addressing both physical and mental wellness, MNYC embodies UNITY’s mission of fostering balance and health in Native communities.
Giving Back Through Acts of Kindness
The council’s “MNYC Angel Tree” project illustrates their commitment to community care. Members adopted an angel from the MCN Children and Family Services program, collecting donations to give young individuals essentials and heartfelt gifts. “We wanted to show that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference,” reflected Olivia Beaver, a council member.
The Role of Youth Councils
As described in the UNITY Youth Council Handbook, youth councils are practical mechanisms for empowering Native youth to solve community problems and embrace leadership roles. The MNYC’s activities reflect this purpose, designing and implementing programs that meet their community’s specific needs.
Participation in youth councils helps members develop critical skills, including leadership, communication, and organization while fostering a sense of responsibility and self-worth. These councils also serve as a collective voice for young people, ensuring their perspectives are heard and respected.
A Vision for the Future
The MNYC is a prime example of how youth councils can positively influence their communities. They create a model of unity and purpose by fostering relationships between youth and elders, addressing wellness issues, and giving back through service. Their story is a testament to the potential of Native youth to drive meaningful change.
As Shaina Bender eloquently said, “Our work is about building bridges—between generations, within our communities, and to a brighter future.” Through their dedication and innovation, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Youth Council continues to inspire other councils nationwide to rise and lead.