The Poarch Creek Tribal Youth Council exemplifies UNITY’s mission of empowering Native youth to lead through service, cultural pride, and community connection. By organizing impactful events and fostering intertribal relationships, this youth council has strengthened its community and extended a helping hand to others in need. Their selfless acts demonstrate the transformative power of youth leadership.
Uplifting Others Through Generosity
One of the council’s most remarkable accomplishments is its year-long fundraising effort to support two other youth councils that lacked financial resources. Through cultural dinners, raffles, and other fundraisers, the council raised funds to anonymously bless these councils, enabling them to participate in UNITY events.
“This was about more than money—it was about showing support and unity within the network of Native youth councils,” said council leader Joey Selzer. Their generosity embodies UNITY’s values of mutual support and shared responsibility.
Promoting Cultural Awareness and Community Engagement
The Poarch Creek Tribal Youth Council actively works to educate their community about Native culture and traditions. Events like the “Taste of the South” provided a platform to share traditional foods and recipes, creating cultural education and connection opportunities. “These events are a way to bridge gaps between generations and ensure our traditions remain alive,” noted Colby Lisenby, a council member.
Their Culture Night Dinner Fundraiser and Powwow Fundraiser further demonstrated their dedication to promoting cultural heritage while supporting their community through meaningful activities.
Building Leadership Through Service
By organizing and participating in various events, the council cultivates leadership and organizational skills among its members. Their participation in raffles, meal preparations, and community outreach exemplifies how youth councils equip Native youth to take responsibility for their actions and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Their initiatives are aligned with UNITY’s emphasis on leadership development, self-esteem building, and fostering a sense of responsibility. These qualities strengthen the council and set a powerful example for other youth councils.
Inspiring Connection Across Communities
The Poarch Creek Tribal Youth Council recognizes the importance of fostering relationships across tribal and regional lines. Their desire to connect with other youth councils supports their vision of a more unified Native youth network. “We’ve seen how collaboration strengthens our efforts. We hope to inspire more connections that bring us closer together,” shared Allie Schachle, a council member.
A Model for New Youth Councils
The UNITY Youth Council Handbook highlights the diversity of youth councils, each shaped by their communities’ unique needs and values. The Poarch Creek Tribal Youth Council stands as a model for newly forming councils, showcasing how to address community challenges, preserve cultural heritage, and lead with generosity.
Their story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that youth councils can have—not just within their own communities but across the UNITY network. As Joey Selzer put it, “When we come together to support each other, we’re not just building stronger councils—we’re building a stronger future for all Native youth.”
Through their dedication to service, culture, and connection, the Poarch Creek Tribal Youth Council exemplifies the very best of UNITY’s mission and inspires others to follow in their footsteps.